Skin Treatment System with Adjustable Height Wand

ABSTRACT

A distance between a surface of a treatment head and tip opening of a skin treatment hand piece is adjustable. In an implementation, the distance is adjusted by moving the tip opening relative to the treatment head surface. Different distances may be used to treat different skin types, problems, and conditions. In an implementation, the hand piece includes a fluid delivery and a vacuum or suction mechanism to provide various therapeutic benefits to the skin.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This patent application is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 16/696,996, filed Nov. 26, 2019, which is a continuation ofU.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/925,743, filed Mar. 19, 2018, issuedas U.S. Pat. No. 10,492,807 on Dec. 3, 2019, which is a divisional ofU.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/733,877, filed Jun. 8, 2015, issuedas U.S. Pat. No. 9,918,727 on Mar. 20, 2018, which is a divisional ofU.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/645,210, filed Dec. 22, 2009, issuedas U.S. Pat. No. 9,050,133 on Jun. 9, 2015. These applications areincorporated by reference along with all other references cited in thisapplication.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to the field of devices to treat human skin andmore specifically to a skin treatment system having a hand piece with anadjustable tip.

The skin includes multiple layers of tissue (e.g., hypodermis, dermis,and epidermis) and guards the underlying muscles, bones, ligaments, andinternal organs. The skin helps to regulate heat and protects the bodyagainst pathogens and water loss. Any open wounds such as cuts,punctures, and scraps should be properly treated so that the tissue doesnot become infected. The skin also plays a key role in aesthetics andappearance. Smooth and luminous skin is generally desirable as it may beassociated with youth, good health, beauty, and fertility.

Treating the skin with certain fluids, solutions, or formulations can bebeneficial to the skin tissue. For example, an open wound may beirrigated with solutions such as a saline or antiseptic solution.Certain fluids or solutions can be used to treat cosmetic problems suchas cellulite and other blemishes. Such solutions can promote lipidmetabolism in skin cells, stimulate blood circulation, nourish and cleanthe skin, and promote the reduction of cellulite.

Some examples of cosmetic techniques for treating the skin includedermabrasion, microdermabrasion, and massage. Dermabrasion is a surgicalprocedure that can include removing the epidermis and part of thedermis. Dermabasion can be used to treat scars, superficial skinlesions, and remove tattoos. The procedure is typically performed by aphysician using a power tool having a rotating abrasive head or wirebrush. The patient may be given sedatives, local anesthetics, andnarcotics. There can be bleeding and scabbing after treatment. Recoveryafter a dermabrasion procedure can be about several weeks. During thattime, the skin is fragile. An antibacterial dressing may used to protectthe skin as the skin heals.

Microdermabrasion can be an improvement over dermabrasion in that thereis typically no significant scabbing or prolonged recovery time.Microdermabrasion is a process for removing dead cells from theoutermost layer of the skin (the epidermis) to provide a younger andhealthier looking appearance, diminish wrinkles, clean out blockedpores, alleviate certain types of undesirable skin conditions that candevelop, and enhance skin tone. Microdermabrasion can help smooth roughskin and acne scars.

Massage is another technique for treating the skin. Massage including avacuum-based massage can be used to reduce cellulite. Cellulite occurswhen fat accumulates in the upper layers of the skin and forms lumpsthat are visible through the skin. Cellulite can be caused by any numberof factors some of which include lifestyle, hormones, heredity, anddiet. Massage helps to stimulate the circulatory and lymphatic systemsthat break down fatty tissue, various pockets of fat, cellulite, and soforth. Massage can be used to target specific areas of the body that aredifficult to stimulate with exercise such as the inner knee and upperthigh areas. Massage may also be used to remove stretch marks, such asstretch marks after pregnancy, and restore elasticity to the skin.

The treatment of an open wound on the skin includes the removal of deadtissue (i.e., debridement). The process may include the use of toolssuch as scalpels, tweezers, and brushes. Failure to properly clean anopen wound can lead to infections which in turn can lead to lifethreatening complications.

Given the particular significance of skin, there is a continuing demandfor effective ways to treat the skin. This includes treating skinproblems or skin-related conditions (e.g., cellulite, skin blemishes,acne, and scars) and wounds on the skin (i.e., open wounds) such astears, cuts, punctures, and scrapes. Current skin treatment systems failto properly integrate fluid delivery mechanisms in their treatment ofskin problems, conditions, and ailments.

Therefore, there is a need to provide improved skin treatment systemsand techniques.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A distance between a surface of a treatment head and tip opening of askin treatment hand piece is adjustable. In an implementation, thedistance is adjusted by moving the tip opening relative to the treatmenthead surface. Different distances may be used to treat different skintypes, problems, and conditions. In an implementation, the hand pieceincludes a fluid delivery and a vacuum or suction mechanism to providevarious therapeutic benefits to the skin.

The invention described herein relates to a skin treatment system havinga hand piece that includes an adjustable-depth tip. In variousimplementations, the hand piece is used during a microdermabrasionprocedure or during a vacuum-based massage procedure. The distancebetween the surface of the treatment head and tip opening of the handpiece is adjustable. In an implementation, the distance is adjusted bymoving the tip opening relative to the treatment head surface. Differentdistances may be used to treat different skin types, problems, andconditions.

In a specific implementation, the distance between the plastic tip of ahand piece and a surface (e.g., smooth surface or abrasive diamondsurface) of the treatment head, is adjustable. The adjustments allow theplastic tip to telescope up and down relative to the treatment head and“click” into one of several different depths. In variousimplementations, a hand piece with a 15-millimeter diameter treatmenthead has three levels. A hand piece with a 25-millimeter diametertreatment head has four levels.

One advantage of this feature is the hand piece's ability to pull andfold skin more or less as part of the skin treatment procedure. Thisaction may have a positive impact in targeting conditions such ascellulite and stretch marks. For example, a deeper setting (depth ofhead relative to tip) may be beneficial in treating a patient who haslost elasticity, suffers from cellulite, or both. The skin is stretchedfarther and kneaded more as it pulls up into the hand piece.

The more shallow settings (the surface of the head being closer toopening) may be advantageous when treating younger skin, more delicateskin, or sensitive skin. Examples include treating acne and otherconditions that can occur on the back or treating stretch marksresulting from weight loss or pregnancy.

Variation of the depth (of head relative to tip) may also contributepositively in treating areas of greater sensitivity, by increasing theskin contact with an abrasive surface of the treatment head withoutchanging the roughness of the abrasive or the vacuum pressure of thedevice. Reducing patient discomfort offers an improvement over currentmicrodermabrasion hand pieces.

In a specific implementation, a skin treatment hand piece includes atip. The tip includes a treatment surface and a tip opening. A distancebetween the tip opening and the treatment surface is adjustable. Thetreatment surface may be connected to an end of a tubular passageway.The tip opening may be provided by an adjusting collar rotatable aboutthe tubular passageway throughout a range of positions thereby adjustingthe distance. In an implementation, at each position the treatmentsurface does not extend past the tip opening.

The hand piece may further include an indexing assembly for releasablyretaining the adjusting collar in a selected angular position. Theselected angular position can be overcome by a user applying torque tothe adjusting collar. The indexing assembly may further include a balldetent, where a ball of the ball detent is urged via a spring into a setof detents formed on the tubular passageway.

In a specific implementation, a device includes a treatment surfaceconnected to a first structure and a second structure connected to thefirst structure and including a first end having a tip opening. Thetreatment surface can be positioned within the second structure and isexposed by the tip opening. The second structure is movable relative tothe first structure, thereby allowing altering of a position of thetreatment surface relative to the tip opening.

The second structure may be removably connected to the first structure.The second structure may be rotatable about an axis of the firststructure. The first structure may include a tubular passageway, and aflow path of a fluid including a liquid may be from a distal end of thetubular passageway to the treatment surface, away from a center of thetreatment surface, and into an annular space surrounding at least aportion of the tubular passageway. An O-ring may be between the firstand second structure. In a specific implementation, the treatmentsurface is abrasive. In another implementation, the treatment surfaceincludes no abrasive particles.

In a specific implementation, there is a third structure to which to thesecond structure is removably connected. The third structure can berotated about an axis of the first structure. There is a first O-ringbetween the first and second structures. There is a second O-ringbetween the second and third structures.

The device may further include a suction port connected to the firststructure. A first distance from the suction port to the tip opening maybe greater than a second distance from the treatment surface to the tipopening. A third distance between the suction port and treatment surfacemay remain fixed as the position of the treatment surface relative tothe tip opening is altered.

In a specific implementation, a method of treating skin includeschanging a distance between an opening of a treatment tip to a treatmentsurface, applying the treatment tip to a skin surface, providing suctionoutside a periphery of the treatment surface through the opening, anddrawing a portion of the skin surface through the opening using thesuction. The portion of the skin surface drawn is proportional to thedistance. The distance may be changeable within a range from about 4millimeters to about 15 millimeters.

In a specific implementation, the opening of the treatment tip isprovided by a sleeve having a set of interlocking sleeve pieces and thechanging a distance between an opening of a treatment tip to a treatmentsurface includes removing a first interlocking sleeve piece. The methodmay further include providing a fluid to the portion of the skin surfaceusing the suction, where the fluid does not exit the opening.

In another implementation, the treatment surface is provided by a firsttreatment head having a first thickness and the changing a distancebetween an opening of a treatment tip to a treatment surface includesreplacing the first treatment head with a second treatment head having asecond thickness, different from the first thickness.

In a specific implementation, the skin surface includes a wart caused bya human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, and the method further includesmoving the treatment tip over the wart and, using abrasive particles ofthe treatment surface, removing a layer of dead skin on the wart, andproviding a treatment liquid via the treatment tip to tissue below thelayer of dead skin. In another implementation, the skin surface includeshyperkeratotic tissue, and the method further includes moving thetreatment tip over the hyperkeratotic tissue and, using abrasiveparticles of the treatment surface, removing at least a layer of thehyperkeratotic tissue, and providing a treatment liquid via thetreatment tip to tissue below the layer of hyperkeratotic tissue. Thehyperkeratotic tissue may include a callus.

In a specific implementation, an adjustable-depth skin treatment kitincludes a container, including a set of treatment head spacers where atleast one spacer is to be placed behind a treatment head. The kitfurther includes a microdermabrasion hand piece, connected to or capableof being connected to the treatment head. The hand piece includes a tipopening. When a first spacer is placed behind the treatment head, afirst depth is from the tip opening to the treatment head, and when asecond spacer is placed behind the treatment head, a second depth,different from the first depth, is from the tip opening to the treatmenthead.

The first spacer may have a first color indicating a thickness of thefirst spacer, and the second spacer may have a second color, differentfrom the first color, indicating a thickness of the second spacer. Athickness of the first spacer may be different from a thickness of thesecond spacer. A diameter of the at least one spacer may be less than adiameter of the tip opening.

In a specific implementation, a method includes positioning a treatmenttip over an open wound, providing a suction outside a periphery of anabrading surface through at least one opening of the treatment tip,drawing a portion of the open wound into contact with the abradingsurface using the suction, providing a treatment liquid via thetreatment tip to the open wound, moving the treatment tip over the openwound and debriding the portion of the open wound in contact with theabrading surface, and drawing a liquid away from the abrading surfacethrough the at least one opening of the treatment tip. A flow path forthe treatment liquid is from a distal end of a tubular passageway,outward at the treatment tip, into the at least one opening of thetreatment tip, and into an annular space surrounding at least a portionof the tubular passageway.

The treatment liquid may include at least one of an antiseptic orantibiotic solution. The liquid may include at least a portion of thetreatment liquid and infected tissue particles.

Other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention willbecome apparent upon consideration of the following detailed descriptionand the accompanying drawings, in which like reference designationsrepresent like features throughout the figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows block diagram of a skin treatment system according to thepresent invention.

FIG. 2 shows an illustration of a skin system.

FIG. 3 shows a block diagram of a skin treatment hand piece having anadjustable tip adjusted to a first depth.

FIG. 4 shows a block diagram of the hand piece adjusted to a seconddepth.

FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of a first embodiment of a skintreatment hand piece with an adjustable tip.

FIG. 6 shows a side view of the hand piece.

FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of the hand piece from a proximal end ofthe hand piece.

FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of the hand piece with portions of theadjustable tip omitted.

FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of the hand piece's adjustment andpositioning mechanism.

FIG. 10 shows a longitudinal section view of the hand piece and a flowpath through the hand piece.

FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of a second embodiment of a skintreatment hand piece with an adjustable tip.

FIG. 12 shows a side view of the hand piece.

FIG. 13 shows a perspective view of the hand piece from a proximal endof the hand piece.

FIG. 14 shows a longitudinal section view of the hand piece.

FIG. 15 shows a side view of a hand piece with radial markings.

FIG. 16 shows a longitudinal section view of a hand piece having a flowpath that is opposite the flow path shown in FIG. 10 .

FIG. 17 shows a block diagram of a hand piece having radiation sources.

FIG. 18 shows a side view of a hand piece having a breather hole andmassaging nodes.

FIG. 19 shows a perspective view of a hand piece having fluid deliverychannels.

FIG. 20 shows a side view of a hand piece having a motor to provide areciprocating action.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

FIG. 1 is a simplified block diagram of a skin treatment system 100. Thesystem has a console 105 which is connected to a hand piece 110. Duringa treatment session, a user 115 holds the hand piece and runs the handpiece over a patient's 120 skin. The user may be a doctor, physician,surgeon, dermatologist, nurse, technician, operator, or aesthetician.

A specific implementation of this invention is a hand piece having anabrasive treatment head or surface for performing microdermabrasion ordermabrasion. The hand piece can include any type of treatment surfacefor treating the skin. For example, the hand piece can include anabrasive treatment surface to exfoliate the skin. As another example,the hand piece can include a smooth or nonabrasive treatment surface toshine or polish the skin. During the treatment, a pressurized fluiddelivery feature of the system can provide treatment fluids to the skin.Such fluids can be infused into the skin to provide therapeuticbenefits. After treatment, the patient leaves with a more youthful andhealthful appearance.

This skin treatment system can be used to treat many different types ofskin problems, conditions, or ailments. For example, a specificimplementation of this invention is the removal of dead skin on thesurface of skin infected with human papilloma virus (HPV). The infectionmay be on internal or external skin, such as on the foot or in themucous membranes of a patient such as oral mucosa or cervix. Features ofthe invention, such as the abrasive treatment head, can remove or getrid of the dead skin that prevents the therapeutic solution fromreaching the area of interest. Generally, salicylic acid does notpenetrate through the dead skin of a wart. Features of the invention canaddress that.

This skin treatment system may also be used to treat various types ofhyperkeratotic skin ailments that require removal of dead skin on thefeet or other large body locations. Some examples of hyperkeratotic skinailments include calluses, corns, warts, chronic eczema, lichen planus,actinic keratoses, seborrheic keratoses, and the like.

Another specific implementation of this invention is for the treatmentof open wounds. For example, an abrasive treatment head can be used withthis hand piece for debridement of open wounds. That is, a surgeon canuse this hand piece to treat a patient having an open wound that iscontaminated, dirty, or infected. The abrasive treatment head of thehand piece can be used to provide mechanical abrasion to debride thetissue and remove necrotic or dead skin in the wound. Fluids such as asaline, antibiotic, or antiseptic solution can be provided by the fluiddelivery system to treat the wound. The combination of a pressurizedfluid delivery system and mechanical abrasion is an advantage overcurrent system which merely offer pressurized saline delivery in theoperating room.

FIG. 2 shows an overview of the flow of a skin treatment system 200. Avacuum line 202 is connected to a wand or hand piece 204. Vacuum line202 connects to an input 206 to a collection reservoir 208 via an elbow210, for example. An output 212 connects with a second vacuum line 214via an elbow 216, for example. A manifold cover 218 seals the input(206, 210) and output (212, 216) connections with collection reservoir208 which is typically a jar made of glass or plastic, for example. Anextension tube 220 connects with inputs 210 and 206 and extends into thecollection reservoir. The collection reservoir holds the waste materials(e.g., abraded skin particles, infected skin particles, and, optionally,fluids) from the skin treatment process.

Optionally, a filter 222 may be provided between second vacuum line 214and a third vacuum line 224 which connects to a vacuum source 226.Filter 222 ensures that no fluid, skin particles, abrasive particles, orother materials collected by collection reservoir 208 are transported tovacuum source 226.

Any type of filter may be used. For example, in a specific embodiment,filter 222 is an in-line condensation or hydrophobic filter, such as awater condenser produced by Wilkerson Labs and available as part numberF0001-000 from Nor-Cal Controls, Inc. of San Jose, Calif.

Vacuum source 226 may be any type of vacuum source such as a vacuumpump, an ejector (e.g., single-stage ejector and multi-stage ejector),or a vacuum blower. In an implementation, the vacuum source createsnegative pressure compared to the pressure at the hand piece tip, sothat there is suction at the tip (i.e., there is a pressure differencebetween the pressure at the vacuum source and tip). Because of thissuction or negative pressure, air, fluid, particles, and other matter atthe tip are drawn to the vacuum source (through the collectionreservoir). Further, in an implementation, the negative pressure alsodraws fluid out of a first fluid reservoir 228, a second fluid reservoir230, or both to the tip, where is it pulled back into the collectionreservoir. The suction is a fluid path that can conduct any fluid,including liquids, gases, or both.

An example of vacuum sources includes the ProPeel, MDPeel, iPeel, orSilkPeel microdermabrasion systems available from Envy Medical, Inc.,Westlake Village, Calif. Vacuum source 226 may generate a vacuumpressure from about 2 pounds per square inch (psi) to about 14 poundsper square inch. For example, the vacuum pressure may be about 3, 4, 5,6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, or more than 14 pounds per square inch. Insome embodiments, the vacuum pressure may be less than 2 pounds persquare inch.

Vacuum source 226 may include a vacuum pressure adjustment control sothat a user can vary the vacuum pressure. In a specific embodiment, thevacuum pressure adjustment control is a knob that can be rotated tochange the vacuum pressure. In other embodiments, the vacuum pressureadjustment control is one or more push buttons, a slider bar, or other.A vacuum pressure gauge may indicate the current vacuum pressure. In aspecific embodiment, the vacuum pressure gauge is a digital gauge. Inanother embodiment, the vacuum pressure gauge is a dial gauge.

In a specific embodiment, vacuum source 226 includes a fluid flowadjustment control so that a user can vary the fluid flow settings. Thefluid flow may range from about 0 milliliters per minute to about 140milliliters per minute. For example, the fluid flow may be about 10, 20,30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130 milliliters, or more than140 milliliters per minute. In a specific embodiment, the fluidadjustment control is a knob that can be rotated to change the fluidflow. In other embodiments, the vacuum pressure adjustment control isone or more push buttons, a slider bar, or other. A fluid flow gauge mayindicate the current flow rate. In a specific embodiment, the fluid flowgauge is a digital gauge. In another embodiment, the fluid flow gauge isa dial gauge.

Typically, the fluid is not pressurized to such a degree that the fluidwill puncture or cut the skin. The fluid may be pressurized to apressure that may range from about −1 pound per square inch to about20-12 pounds per square inch. For example, the fluid may be pressurizedto a pressure of −2, −3, −4, −5, —6, −7, —8, —9, —10, −11, −12, 13, 14,15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 19.9 pounds per square inch. Depending upon theapplication, the fluid may be pressurized to a pressure less than −1pound per square inch or greater than −20 pounds per square inch.

In a specific implementation, the suction provided by the vacuum sourceis solely responsible for drawing fluid from the fluid reservoir to thepatient's skin, back into the hand piece, and into the collectionreservoir. In this specific implementation, there is no pump to pumpfluid from the fluid reservoir to the hand piece. There is no pump atthe fluid reservoir. In another implementation, there is a pump to pumpfluid from the fluid reservoir to the hand piece. The pump maypressurize the fluid in the fluid reservoir.

Wand 204 includes a tip or treatment head holder 232 which holds atreatment head or tip piece 234. A first fluid delivery line 238 extendsfrom wand 204 and connects to an output 240 of first fluid reservoir 228via an elbow 242, for example.

A breather line 244 may be connected in-line via a joint 246, forexample, or other interconnection, and includes an adjustable valve 248or other means for varying an amount of air that is allowed into firstfluid delivery line 238. This feature allows, for example, the amount ofvacuum pressure to be adjusted for a given fluid and allows fluidshaving different viscosities to be applied at the same vacuum pressurelevel, since different viscosities will require varying amounts of airto be introduced into breather line 244 to produce a constant vacuumpressure level.

Alternatively, a breather line or input with adjustment valve may belocated on elbow 242 or directly on a manifold cover 250. Still further,a valve or other flow control mechanism 236 may be provided on wand 204or in first fluid delivery line 238 to control the amount of fluidpassing through the line. This feature can be provided alternatively, orin addition to breather line 248 discussed above.

The flow control mechanism or valve allows, for example, the user toturn off the flow of fluid to the wand so that the user can clean orreplace the tip if it becomes clogged. The fluid flow control mechanismmay be located on the wand as shown in FIG. 2 or anywhere along thefluid flow path such as on first fluid delivery line 238. Generally,however, the fluid flow control valve will be located on the wand ornear the wand so that the user can quickly turn off the flow of fluid.

An input may be provided in manifold cover 250 which may be open to theatmosphere to prevent vacuum buildup in first fluid reservoir 228.Manifold cover 250 seals output (240, 242) connections with first fluidreservoir 228 which is typically a jar made of glass or plastic, forexample, and contains lotions, vitamins, other skin treatment fluids, orcombinations of these to be applied to the skin by wand 204. Anextension tube 252 connects with output 240, 242 and extends into thefirst fluid reservoir to near the bottom of the first fluid reservoir toensure that most all of the contents of the fluid reservoir are capableof being delivered through the system.

In a specific embodiment, second fluid reservoir 230 is also included. Asecond fluid delivery line 254 connects the second fluid reservoir tojoint 246. Joint 246 may further include a valve to block or to permitthe flow of fluid from the second fluid reservoir into first fluiddelivery line 238.

The first fluid reservoir may include contents that are the same ordifferent from the first fluid reservoir. For example, the first fluidreservoir may include topical anesthetics and the second fluid reservoirmay include disinfectants. In various implementations, there are anynumbers of fluid reservoirs. For example, an implementation may havemore than two fluid reservoirs, such as three, four, five, six, seven,or more than seven fluid reservoirs.

Having more than one fluid reservoir allows, for example, differenttypes of fluids to be used to treat different types of skin conditionsthat the patient may have without requiring the user to constantlyremove the existing fluid reservoir and replace it with a new fluidreservoir that contains the appropriate fluid. For example, a patientwith oily skin may require a different treatment regime than a patientwith dry skin. The patient with the oily skin may thus be treated withfluid from the first fluid reservoir in which the fluid does not containany oil-based products because such oil-based products may worsen thepatient's skin condition. The patient with the dry skin may instead betreated with fluid from the second reservoir in which the fluid mayinclude oil-based products to help moisturize the skin.

Abrasive particles, such as corundum crystals, sodium bicarbonateparticles or other abrasive particles, including those discussed in U.S.Pat. No. 5,971,999 (which is incorporated by reference), for example maybe included in the fluid reservoirs for delivery through the system toperform a microdermabrading function. Microdermabrasion is typicallyaccomplished via a bristled tip, abrasive tip, or both. A smooth tip maybe used if the patient desires to be treated with fluids and with littleor no abrasion, such as during vacuum-massage or vacuum-based cellulitemassage. The tips may be used together with any of the fluids mentionedabove, with some other fluid carrier medium, such as those described inU.S. Pat. No. 5,971,999, for example, or both.

The fluid reservoirs may contain solution or a suspension for purposesother than abrasion or pure abrasiveness. The compositions used in thepresent invention can include a wide and diverse range of components.The International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary and Handbook, 12^(th)edition, 2008, which is incorporated by reference, describes anextensive variety of cosmetic and pharmaceutical ingredients commonlyused in the skin care industry, which are suitable for use in thecompositions of the present invention.

General examples, types or categories, or both, of compounds that may beemployed include: bleaching formulations (e.g., 2 percent to 4 percenthydroquinone, 2 percent kojic acid, 1 percent vitamin K, and 1 percenthydrocortisone in an aqueous base); acne treatment formulations (e.g.,salicylic acid, alcohol base buffered by witch hazel, etc.); finelines/wrinkle treatment formulations (e.g., hyaluronic acid in anaqueous base); hydrating formulations (e.g., calendula, vitamins A, D,E, or other vitamins, or combinations of these in a mineral oil base);antioxidant formulations; free radical scavengers (e.g., vitamins A, E,K, or other vitamins, or combinations of these in a mineral oil base);pH adjusters; sunscreen agents; tanning agents and accelerators;nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory actives (NSAIDS); antimicrobial andantifungal agents; moisturizers; lightening agents; humectants; numbingagents; retinol (e.g., 0.2 percent to about 0.6 percent concentration);saline; and water, or combinations of these.

The solution or suspension may contain extracts such as those fromplants, vegetables, trees, herbs, flowers, nuts, fruits, animals, orother organisms, or combinations of these. Such extracts may be used tohelp condition the skin, provide a relaxing aroma, or both.

The solution or suspension may also contain viscosity increasing ordecreasing agents, colorants, or combinations of these. In a specificimplementation of the invention, the viscosity of the fluids used isabout 1 centipoise (e.g., about 0.5 to 1.5 centipoise). However, inother implementations, the viscosity may range from 0.1 centipoise to100 centipoises. The viscosity may be, for example, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5,0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50,60, 70, 80, 90, or more than 100 centipoises. In other applications theviscosity may be less than 0.1 centipoise.

In a specific implementation, the fluids, abrasive particles, or bothfor the fluid reservoirs may be packaged as a concentrated solution,powder, solids, or combinations of these to be mixed, diluted, or bothby the microdermabrasion system, user, or both.

Other examples of product categories that may be employed alone or incombination with other compounds include, antibiotics, antiseptics,disinfectants, astringents, cleansers, pore decongestants, balms,botanicals, collagen stimulators, herbs, microemulsifiers, oxygendelivery vehicles, proteins, serums, skin firming agents, toners,topical anesthetics, emulsions, ointments, gels, tyrosinase inhibitors,anti-cellulite oils, and other related product categories.Anti-cellulite oils may include one or more of the following oilshazelnut, jojoba, cinnamon-leaf, juniper, rosemary, cypress, orange,grapefruit, cedarwood, lemon, or lime.

Individually named products that may be used (with associated benefitindicated parenthetically) include: Aloe Vera (calming); alpha hydroxyacids (peel); alphalipoic acid (antioxidant); benzoil and otherperoxides (acne); ceramide (hydrator); copper (toning); copper peptide(toning); CoQ-10 (coenzyme Q-10) and other enzymes (toning); cortisone(calming); glycolic acids (peel); hyaluronic acid (collagenstimulation); hydrolipids (hydrator); hydroquinones (bleaching); lacticacids (peel); magnesium ascorbic phosphate (free radical scavenger,collagen stimulator, bleaching); niacin (vascular dilation);phospholipids (moisturization); potassium (toning, psoriasis), andsalicylic acids (acne); and related products. Of course, any combinationof such elements may be provided—even in connection with abrasiveparticles.

Any of the products listed may be used with the microdermabrasion handpiece of the invention. For example, fluids which help to clarify theskin (e.g., clarifying infusions) may be used. Fluids which help tohydrate the skin (e.g., hydrating infusions) may be used.

As another example, coenzyme Q-10, glycolic acids, or vitamin E, to namea few examples, may be conducted through an opening of the treatmenthead to the skin of a patient. The opening may extend to a positioncloser to patient's skin through a cylindrical column, nipple, or otherstructure to achieve a similar purpose.

Note, however, the present system may be used by eliminating the fluidreservoirs altogether, where microdermabrasion or vacuum massage isperformed in a “dry state” and first fluid delivery line 238 is simplyleft open to atmosphere, with or without a filter or valve, or both, foradjusting the amount or flow rate of air that is allowed into the firstfluid delivery line. Similarly, dry or externally lubricated vacuummassage of tissue may be accomplished by tip 234 having a smoothsurface.

A feature of the invention is that the system delivers fluids directlyto the patient's skin while simultaneously exfoliating the skin,removing dead or necrotic skin in an open wound, or removing dead skinto treat the underlying skin (e.g., treating hyperkeratotic tissue suchas a callus). In an embodiment, the system uses a variety of speciallyformulated solutions to provide, for example, treatment forhyperpigmentation, dehydration, acne, and photodamage. In anotherembodiment, specially formulated solutions are used during debridementof open wounds. These solutions can include an antibiotic, anantiseptic, or both.

Patients receive the most benefit when fluids are used to treat theirskin-specific conditions that have specifically been tested and approvedfor use with the system. These fluids also provide a consistent level ofquality. Furthermore, these fluids are tested in the system to ensurethat they do not clog the system.

Unapproved fluids may not have been tested and have an uncertainquality. They may fail certain quality standards. Unapproved fluids, forexample, may not contain active ingredients, may contain an insufficientquantity of active ingredients, may contain entirely incorrectingredients, may contain improper proportions of ingredients, or mayeven contain hazardous ingredients. A patient who receives unapprovedfluids as part of their skin treatment may suffer dangerous consequencesto their health, such as unexpected side effects, rashes, allergicreactions, a worsening of their skin condition, or other problem.Unapproved fluids, because they have not been tested in the system, mayalso clog the system.

FIG. 3 shows a more detailed block diagram of a specific implementationof the hand piece shown in FIG. 1 being applied to skin 305 of thepatient. The hand piece includes an adjustable tip 310 that fits over oris attached to a distal end 315 of a handle 320. A treatment head or tippiece 325 is attached to the distal end and may be part of the tip. Asuction or vacuum as shown by arrows 330 pulls a targeted portion 335 ofskin through an opening 340 of the tip so that the treatment head cantreat or abrade the targeted skin.

A depth, height, or distance D1 is measured between tip opening 340 anda surface 345 of the treatment head. In FIG. 3 , depth D1 has beenadjusted to a first depth. A user can adjust depth D1 and thus vary thedistance that the skin is pulled into the tip opening.

FIG. 4 shows a block diagram of the hand piece where the user hasadjusted depth D1 to a second depth. As shown in the examples of FIGS.3-4 , the second depth is greater than the first depth. This allows agreater amount of skin to be lifted, stretched, pulled, or folded ascompared to the position of the adjustable tip shown in FIG. 3 . Thisadjustment feature can be used to target specific conditions such ascellulite and stretch marks. For example, a deeper or high setting, suchas shown in FIG. 4 , can be beneficial in treating a patient who haslost elasticity in their skin, is being treated specifically forcellulite, or both. The skin is stretched farther and kneaded more as itis pulled up into the hand piece as compared to the shallow settingshown in FIG. 3 . The high setting can be used to provide deep lymphaticmassage.

The shallow setting (FIG. 3 ) may be advantageous when treating youngerpatients or patients whose skin is more delicate and sensitive. Thishand piece can be used to treat acne, other skin conditions that occuron the patient's back, stretch marks such as resulting from weight lossor pregnancy, or combinations of these.

The opening of the adjustable tip can telescope up and down relative tothe treatment head. In a specific implementation, a treatment surface isconnected to a first structure, such as an end of a handle. A secondstructure is connected to the first structure and includes a tipopening. The treatment surface can be positioned within the secondstructure and is exposed by the tip opening. This allows the treatmentsurface to contact the skin that is lifted into the tip opening. Thesecond structure is movable relative to the first structure. This allowsaltering of a position of the treatment surface relative to the tipopening.

Any mechanism may be used to allow the user to adjust the distancebetween the tip opening and the treatment head (or treatment surface).For example, the second structure may be removably connected to thefirst structure. This allows the second structure to be swapped orreplaced with a third structure having different dimensions (e.g.,lengths or heights) than the second structure so that the position ofthe treatment surface relative to the tip opening can be altered.

In a specific implementation, depth D1 is adjusted by rotatingadjustable tip 310 relative to the treatment head. This rotationproduces an axial displacement of the adjustable tip relative to thetreatment head. The adjustable tip translates along the handle androtates about the handle.

In this specific implementation, depth D1 is increased by rotating theadjustable tip in a clockwise direction. Depth D1 is decreased byrotating the adjustable tip in an opposite or a counterclockwisedirection as seen from a proximal end of the hand piece and lookingtowards the distal end. However, it should be appreciated that thesedirections can be swapped, i.e., rotate in clockwise direction todecrease depth D1; rotate in counterclockwise direction to increasedepth D1.

In another implementation, depth D1 is adjusted by pulling or pushingthe adjustable tip relative to the treatment head. The adjustable tiptranslates along the handle, but does not rotate about the handle. Forexample, depth D1 can be increased by pulling the adjustable tip awayfrom the treatment head. Depth D1 can be decreased by pushing theadjustable tip towards the treatment head. The adjustable tip can slidealong a linear track, guide, or rail.

Depth D1 may be adjusted by swapping tips, tip parts, or both. Forexample, a first tip may provide a first depth between an opening of thefirst tip and a treatment head. A second tip may provide a second depth,different from the first depth, between an opening of the second tip andthe treatment head. The user can remove the first tip from the handpiece and attach the second tip to the hand piece. The tips can beattached using threads (i.e., tip screws onto hand piece). The tips canbe attached frictionally to the hand piece such as using a press orinterference fit. The tips can be attached using a snap-fit, set screws,bolts, nuts, screws, dowels, or any other connection type or combinationof connection types.

In another specific implementation, the tip and handle are fixedlyconnected. That is, the tip and handle are stationary and do not move.In this specific implementation, the distance between the treatment headand the tip opening is adjusted by moving the treatment head relative tothe tip opening. For example, the treatment head may be attached to asliding carrier, platform, or sled. A slide or switch on the handleallows the user to slide the carrier and thus the treatment headforwards and backwards with respect to the tip opening. The treatmenthead can be locked into any number of positions. As another example, thetreatment head is connected to a threaded rod. Turning the rod withrespect to the handle in one direction moves the treatment headforwards. Turning the rod in an opposite direction retracts thetreatment head. The treatment head may be connected to a rod that can bepushed and pulled with respect to the handle. The rod may include teethwhich engage with a pawl of a ratchet mechanism so that the treatmenthead can be locked into position.

Depth D1 may be adjusted from about 1 millimeter to about 20millimeters. This includes, for example, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, 5,5.5, 6, 6.5, 7, 7.5, 8, 8.5, 9, 9.5, 10, 10.5, 11, 11.5, 12, 12.5, 13,13.5, 14, 14.5, 15, 15.5, 16, 16.5, 17, 17.5, 18, 18.5, 19, 19.5, or19.9 millimeters. Depth D1 may be adjusted to a depth less than 1millimeter or greater than 20 millimeters. In various implementations,depth D1 is adjustable within a range from about 5 millimeters to about15 millimeters. Depth D1 is adjustable within a range from about 4millimeters to about 7 millimeters.

Generally, the treatment head does not extend past the tip opening. Thisallows the patient's skin to be pulled into the tip opening. In aspecific implementation, there is a stop member or other feature thatprevents the user from extending the treatment head past the tipopening. However, in another implementation, the treatment head or aportion of the treatment head can extend past the tip opening.

FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of a first embodiment of a hand piece505 having an adjustable tip 510 and a treatment head 515 at a distalend 516 of the hand piece. The adjustable tip includes an adjustingcollar 520 having a flange 525 and a sleeve (e.g., cylinder, extension,tube, or attachment) 530 which is attached to the collar and butted upagainst a side of the flange. A set of pegs 535 are arranged about theflange and pass through a side edge or side surface of the flange.

A screw 540 is used to fasten the treatment head to the distal end ofthe hand piece. Typically, the screw is recessed below the surface ofthe treatment head so that the head of the screw does not scratch thepatient's skin. The screw drive type can be a hex socket head (as shownin the figure), slotted, Phillips, Pozidriv, square, Robertson, hex,torx, tri-wing, torq-set, spanner head, triple square, polydrive,one-way, spline drive, double hex, Bristol, and so forth.

The screw allows the user to replace the treatment head. That is, thetreatment heads can be interchangeable. For example, the user canunscrew the screw, remove a treatment head having an abrasive treatmentsurface, and place a treatment head having a smooth treatment surfaceonto the hand piece. Thus, this feature allows the user to select theappropriate level of abrasiveness for the patient's skin.

Any mechanism may be used to fasten or attach the treatment head to thehand piece. For example, a treatment head may instead or additionally beattached using an interference or press fit, snap-fit, threads, or anyother kind of locking mechanism (e.g., insert treatment head, and thentwist or screw to lock).

In a specific implementation, the treatment head is designed to bereusable. A treatment head can be removed, cleaned, and then placed backonto the hand piece to be reused. For example, the treatment head may bedesigned to be autoclavable (i.e., sterilized by being subjected tohigh-pressure steam at 121 degrees Celsius or more).

In another implementation, the treatment head is designed to bedisposable, such as after a onetime use. Some disposable treatment headsare further discussed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/040,867,filed Feb. 29, 2008 which is incorporated by reference along with allother references cited in this application.

Generally, the collar is frictionally fit over the distal end of thehandle. One or more gaskets such as O-rings or other sealing members maybe placed between the collar and the distal end of the handle. Thishelps to create a seal so that fluid does not leak out.

The flange may include one or more notches, grooves, or recessesdistributed about or around a circumference of the flange. Similarly,the sleeve may include one or more notches distributed about or around acircumference of the sleeve. The notches help to ensure that the user'sfingers do not slip while adjusting the adjustable tip. In animplementation, the user adjusts the tip by rotating the collar relativeto the treatment head. The user can grasp the flange, sleeve, or bothand turn or twist the collar in a first direction to extend the distancebetween the tip opening and the treatment surface. The user can turn thecollar in a second direction, opposite the first direction, to reducethe distance between the tip opening and the treatment surface.

The surface of the flange, sleeve, or both may instead or additionallybe textured to prevent slipping. The texturing may include raisedsurfaces or ridges, a roughened surface, knurls, cuts, grooves, and thelike. Any process may be used to create a textured surface such asmachining, knurling, chemical etching, or grit blasting.

The sleeve may be made of a transparent, semitransparent, translucent,or semitranslucent material. This allows the user to view the patient'sskin during the microdermabrasion treatment. The sleeve may instead bemade of an opaque material. The sleeve may be made of plastic such asnylon, thermoplastics, polyethylene, polycarbonate, acrylonitrilebutadiene styrene (ABS), or Delrin. Glass, such as Pyrex, for example,may also be used. The sleeve may be made of metal (e.g., stainlesssteel, aluminum, titanium, brass).

In a specific implementation, the sleeve is frictionally fit over thecollar. Sealing members such as one or more O-rings between the sleeveand collar may be used to create a seal between the collar and thesleeve. In another implementation, the collar and sleeve are molded(i.e., integrally molded) as one-piece unit. The collar and sleeve maybe glued together using an adhesive.

Although in this specific implementation the sleeve has a circular crosssection, it should be appreciated that the cross section can have anyshape (e.g., oval, ellipse, square, rectangle, and triangle). In variousimplementations, the user can select a sleeve having a desired shape toplace onto the hand piece. The user can select the shape based on thegeometry or contour of the skin to be treated. For example, a sleevehaving a rectangular cross section or opening may be used to treat skinareas having tight corners such as the patient's inner thigh.

FIG. 6 shows a side view of hand piece 505. A first groove 605 is formedin a surface 610 of distal end 516 of the hand piece. A first peg 615 isfitted into a hole in the flange of collar 520 such that an end of thefirst peg exits an inside surface of the collar. The end of the firstpeg is received by, engages, or projects into the first groove.

The groove spirals, twists, or at least partially spirals or twistsabout the distal end. In an implementation, the groove extends in afirst direction 625 and a second direction 627. The first direction isparallel to a longitudinal axis 630 passing through the hand piece. Thesecond direction is a radial direction about the longitudinal axis.

The groove may be referred to as a track, guide, channel, flute, slot,furrow, score, kerf, notch, or recess. The groove may be formed usingany technique such as machining, milling, carving, engraving, etching(e.g., chemical etching), rifling, or combinations of these. The groovemay be formed using a mold or die.

Although FIG. 6 shows one groove, there can be any number of grooves.For example, there can be two, three, four, five, or more than fivegrooves. A cross-sectional shape of the groove may be a semicircle,square, rectangle, triangle, or any other shape.

The groove receives the end of the peg and provides a path forconverting rotational motion of the adjustable tip by the user intolinear motion. That is, when the user turns the adjustable tip, the endof peg is constrained or guided by the contours of the groove. Theadjustable tip follows the path of the groove because the peg isconnected to the adjustable tip. The peg may be referred to as a tab,pin, rod, insert, key, nubbin, or projection.

FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of hand piece 505 from a proximal end ofthe hand piece looking towards the distal end. In this specificimplementation, the hand piece includes an indexing assembly toreleasably hold or retain the collar in its user-selected angularposition. This specific implementation of the indexing assembly includesa ball detent mechanism. A pin 725 is fitted into a hole in the flangeof the collar and a set of detents 730 is formed on the distal end ofthe hand piece. The detents are radially and axially spaced. That is,the detents are spaced angularly about the handle. The detents are alsospaced along a central or longitudinal axis of the handle. The detentshelp the user to lock or set a position of an opening 735 of theadjustable tip relative to a surface 740 of a treatment head 745.

In a specific implementation, pin 725 of the ball detent mechanismincludes a ball or sphere 727 and a biasing member such as a spring tourge the ball into a detent. In this specific implementation, a body ofthe pin between first and second ends of the pin is bored or hollow. Thespring (e.g., compression spring) and ball are placed inside or withinthe body. The spring urges the ball towards an opening at the second endof the pin such that a portion of the ball extends or protrudes past theopening. A diameter of the opening is less than a diameter of the ballto prevent the ball from falling out of the pin.

As the adjustable tip is rotated the portion of the ball falls into thedetent under the spring pressure and the opening of the adjustable tipis at a specific axial position relative to the treatment head. Thedetent hinders the rotation of the adjustable tip. Additional force ortorque applied to the adjustable tip dislodges the ball from the detent.That is, the portion of the ball recedes into the pin opening againstthe spring pressure. The detent may be referred to as a dimple,depression, indentation, recess, cavity, or stop.

There can be any number of detents. In a specific implementation, a handpiece includes three detents. In another implementation, a hand pieceincludes one detent. A hand piece may include no detents, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7,8, 9, 10, or more than 10 detents. Typically, a number of detents isproportional to a size or diameter of the treatment head. In variousimplementations, a hand piece having a treatment head with a diameter ofabout 25 millimeters has three detents. A hand piece having a treatmenthead with a diameter of about 15 millimeters has one detent.

In a specific implementation, the adjustable tip can be rotated so thatit can be in a first, second, third, or fourth position relative to thesurface of the treatment head. In the first position, a first depth ordistance between the adjustable tip opening and the treatment headsurface is about 5 millimeters. In this specific implementation, theball of the detent mechanism is not engaged with or is disengaged from adetent. In another implementation, the ball engages the detent. In thesecond position, a second distance between the adjustable tip openingand the treatment head surface is about 7 millimeters and the ball ofthe detent mechanism engages a first detent. In the third position, athird distance between the adjustable tip opening and the treatment headsurface is about 9 millimeters and the ball of the detent mechanismengages a second detent. In the fourth position, a fourth distancebetween the adjustable tip opening and the treatment head surface isabout 11 millimeters and the ball of the detent mechanism engages athird detent.

In this specific implementation, the distance between the adjustable tipopening and the treatment head surface ranges from about 5 millimetersto about 11 millimeters. The adjustable tip can be adjusted to one offour discrete positions. However, it should be appreciated that theadjustable tip can be adjusted to any number of discrete positionsdepending on, for example, the number of detents. The number of discretepositions is proportional to the number of detents.

Furthermore, the adjustable tip may be continuously adjusted. Theadjustable tip may be adjusted to any number of intermediate positionsbetween the first and second position, between the second and thirdposition, or between the third and fourth position. For example, a firstintermediate position is between the second and third positions. In thisfirst intermediate position, the ball is between the first and seconddetent and is not engaged with a detent. A first intermediate distancebetween the adjustable tip opening and the treatment head surface willbe greater than 7 millimeters and less than 9 millimeters.

In this specific implementation, the adjustable tip is adjustable in2-millimeter increments. That is, a difference between a distance fromthe tip opening to the treatment head at a position of the tip and anext distance from the tip opening to the treatment head at a nextposition of the tip is about 2 millimeters. However, the difference canbe any value (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 millimeters). The difference may beconstant or it may vary.

In another specific implementation, the adjustable tip can be rotated sothat it can be in a first, second, or third position relative to thesurface of the treatment head. In the first position, a first depth ordistance between the adjustable tip opening and the treatment headsurface is about 3 millimeters. In this specific implementation, theball of the detent mechanism is not engaged with or is disengaged from adetent. In another implementation, the ball engages the detent. In thesecond position, a second distance between the adjustable tip openingand the treatment head surface is about 5 millimeters and the ball ofthe detent mechanism engages a first detent. In the third position, athird distance between the adjustable tip opening and the treatment headsurface is about 6 millimeters and the ball of the detent mechanism doesnot engage a detent. In another implementation, the ball engages asecond detent.

The indexing assembly allows the user to set consistently the depthsbetween the tip opening and the treatment head. For example, if patientA prefers a first setting (i.e., a first distance between the tipopening and the treatment head), the user can record that first settingin patient A's medical file. Then, when patient A returns for anothertreatment, the user can adjust the hand piece to the first setting. Insome implementations, the detents are omitted.

The ball detent mechanism is merely one type of an indexing assembly andother types of indexing assemblies may instead be used. Some examples ofindexing assemblies include an indexing clutch, ball plunger, indexingring, or indexing plate (e.g., a plate having a set of preset holes in abacking plate).

In a specific implementation, a surface of the distal end includesgraduated or radial markings 1510. See FIG. 15 . In this specificimplementation, the graduated markings include a set of linescircumscribing or at least partially circumscribing the distal end. Theset of lines are spaced at predetermined distances along thelongitudinal axis of the hand piece. A set of numbers, symbols,characters, or letters may be adjacent or next to the set of lines.

The graduated markings may be made using any technique for making avisible impression on the hand piece. Some examples of techniquesinclude printing, silkscreen printing, masking, stamping, plating,thermography, embossing, painting, engraving, etching, anodizing,oxidizing, deposition, imprinting, and chemical processing.

The graduated markings provide the user with a visual indication of theposition of the adjustable tip opening with respect to the treatmenthead. In an implementation, the graduated markings can indicate a degreeof rotation or movement of the adjustable tip about the distal end andtherefore the distance between the adjustable tip opening and thesurface of the treatment head.

For example, in the first position of the adjustable tip, an edge 1515of the collar is aligned with a first marking 1520 on the distal end.The first marking indicates to the user that a first distance is betweenthe adjustable tip opening and the surface of the treatment head. In thesecond position of the adjustable tip, the edge of the collar is alignedwith a second marking 1525 on the distal end. The second markingindicates to the user that a second distance, different from the firstdistance, is between the adjustable tip opening and the surface of thetreatment head. In another implementation, the collar includes a windowor other opening through which the user can see the graduated markings.

In a specific implementation, the graduated or radial markings includethe distance measurements (e.g., 5 millimeters, 7 millimeters, 9millimeters, and 11 millimeters) between the tip opening and the surfaceof the treatment head. That is, these radial markings can denote depthand can allow precise adjustment of the distance between the tip openingand the surface of the treatment head. In another implementation, thegraduated markings do not include the distance measurements. A handpiece may include the radial markings and no detent mechanism.

Referring now to FIG. 7 , this implementation of the hand piece includesan additional peg and groove to help provide a secure attachment of thecollar to the handle (i.e., to prevent the collar from wobbling whenturned). Similar to first peg 615, a second peg 715 is fitted into ahole in the flange of collar 520. An end of the second peg exits theinside surface of the collar and is received by a second groove 720.

In this specific implementation, the first peg and groove are arrangedopposite the second peg and groove. The first peg is opposite ordiametrically opposite the second peg. The first groove is opposite thesecond groove. An angle between the first and second peg or between thefirst and second groove is about 180 degrees. However, it should beappreciated that any angle can be between the first and second pegs. Forexample, an angle between the first and second peg or between the firstand second groove can be about 30, 45, or 90 degrees. Similarly, anyangle can be between the first and second grooves (e.g., 30, 45, or 90degrees).

FIG. 8 shows another perspective view of hand piece 505 from theproximal end of the hand piece looking towards the distal end. Thesleeve has been omitted from this figure. Treatment head 745 is attachedto a treatment head holder 805. The collar includes an extension 810over which the sleeve is fit. An O-ring 815 is positioned between theextension and sleeve to create a seal. Similarly, an O-ring 820 ispositioned between the collar and the distal end of the hand piece tocreate another seal. The O-ring seals can prevent fluid from leakingout. The seals can also help to maintain the vacuum or suction force inthe tip.

FIG. 9 shows another perspective view of hand piece 505 from theproximal end of the hand piece looking towards the distal end. Thesleeve and collar have been omitted from this figure. The distal end ofthe hand piece includes an end 905 of second peg 715 which engagessecond groove 720. Similarly, an end 910 of first peg 615 engages firstgroove 605. Pin 725 of the ball detent mechanism includes ball 727. Aportion of the ball is received by a first detent 915 in set of detents730. A first helix 920 follows the first groove. A second helix 925passes through a reference point of each detent in the set of detents.

The ends of the first and second pegs may be dome shaped as shown in thefigure. That is, the ends may be curved or rounded. This allows the pegsto slide smoothly within the grooves. The ends of the pegs can have anyshape (e.g., square, rectangle, triangle, or oval). The shape of theends may be complementary with the cross section of the grooves so thatthe ends can nest within or fit the grooves.

Each helix may be defined by a curve traced on the surface of the distalend of the hand piece by the rotation of a point crossing its rightsections at a constant oblique angle. In a specific implementation, thefirst and second helixes are the same. For example, the first and secondhelixes have the same degree of curvature or twist. The first helix isparallel with the second helix. This allows the ball of the detentmechanism to fall into each of the detents as the adjustable tip isrotated about the distal end and along the path defined by the grooves.

In this specific implementation, a first distance D30 is between a firstpoint 930 a on the first helix and a second point 930 b on the secondhelix. A second distance D32 is between a third point 935 a on the firsthelix and a fourth point 935 b on the second helix. The first and seconddistances are measured parallel to a longitudinal axis 940 passingthrough the hand piece. The first and second distances are the same. Aline passing through the first and second points is parallel with a linepassing through the third and fourth points. The lines are parallel tothe longitudinal axis.

In a specific implementation, a groove such as the first groove, secondgroove, or both does not completely encircle or spiral around the handpiece. In this specific implementation, a line drawn between any twopoints on the groove does not pass through a center of the hand piece.The line does not intersect the longitudinal axis. In anotherimplementation, the groove completely encircles or spirals around thehand piece. A line drawn between two points on the groove may passthrough the center of the hand piece. The line may intersect thelongitudinal axis.

FIG. 10 shows a longitudinal section of the hand piece. The distal endof the hand piece includes a cannula or end piece 1005 attached to adistal end of the handle. Collar 520 of the adjustable tip is rotatablyconnected to the distal end of the handle via first and second pegs 615and 715 whose ends are engaged with first and second grooves 605 and720, respectively. A flow path or vacuum loop 1010 shows the flow offluids through the hand piece.

The cannula may be secured to the distal end of the handle using anadhesive such as epoxy, screws, bolts, threads, or any combinations ofthese. The cannula may be molded with the handle.

The cannula, collar, or both may be made of metal. Some examples ofmetals include stainless steel, steel, aluminum, titanium, or brass.But, the cannula, collar, or both can be made using any material such ascarbon composites, plastics, or ceramics. Some examples of plasticsinclude polyoxymethylene, polyetheretherketone, polyphenylenesulfide,polyethylene terephthalate (PET), other polyesters, polyamides,polyaramids, nylon, polypropylene, thermoplastics, polycarbonate,acrylonitrile, butadiene styrene (ABS), or Delrin.

In a specific implementation, the cannula is made of a material whichhas greater durability and resistance to wear as compared to thematerial used to make the collar. That is, the collar may be designed towear out before the cannula. The cannula may be made of a first type ofmaterial such as metal and the collar may be made of a second type ofmaterial, different from the first type, such as a plastic. One benefitof this feature is that after the collar wears out due to repeatedlyadjusting the tip, the collar may be replaced with a new collar. Inanother implementation, the cannula and collar are made of the samematerial. The cannula is designed to wear out before the collar. Thatis, the collar is made of a material having a greater durability andresistance to wear as compared to the material used to make the cannula.

The cannula, collar, or both may be made using self-lubricatingmaterials. Typically, friction is generated when an inner surface of thecollar rubs against the surface of the cannula as the adjustable tip isrotated or otherwise moved. The friction can contribute to wear of theparts. It can be desirable to reduce the friction to increase the lifespan of the parts. Thus, for example, the collar may be made of acomposite including graphite and plastic where there is a greater amountof graphite than plastic. The higher percentage of graphite causes theparts to slip over rather than rub against each other. Aself-lubricating material may be bonded to one or more of the parts.

Vacuum source 226 (see FIG. 2 ) is turned on to establish a vacuumwithin the system. A closed vacuum loop is formed when opening 745 ofthe adjustable tip is placed against the patient's skin which seals theopening. A targeted area of the skin is drawn up into the opening and acentral portion of the targeted skin is draw into contact with thetreatment head (see FIGS. 3-4 ). Fluids from the fluid reservoir aredrawn into the hand piece. The fluids follow the flow path thus treatingthe skin before being drawn back into the hand piece and into thecollection reservoir along with any skin particles and other debris.

More specifically, in a specific implementation, a first segment 1020 aof the flow path flows through a tubular passageway 1025 in the handleor from a proximal end to a distal end of the handle. The first segmentis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the hand piece. One or moreportions of the fluid is then diverted into one or more channels 1030behind treatment head 745. A second segment 1020 b of the flow pathflows into the one or more channels. The second segment is at an anglewith respect to the first segment. The angle may be an oblique angle.The angle may be about 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60,65, 70, 75, 80, or 85 degrees. The first and second segments may beperpendicular.

A third segment 1020 c of the flow path is perpendicular to the firstsegment. The third segment is parallel to a surface (e.g., abrasivesurface) of the treatment head. A fourth segment 1020 d of the flow pathis at an angle with respect to the third segment. The fourth segment ofthe flow path then flows out of an opening 1035 between the treatmenthead and treatment head holder 805.

A fifth segment 1020 e of the flow path is parallel with the firstsegment. As the hand piece is moved over the patient's skin, the fluidflows around or about a perimeter or circumference of the treatment headand across the surface of the treatment head to treat the patient'sskin. In this specific implementation, the fluid does not pass throughor flow through the treatment head. The treatment head is made of anonporous or not permeable material that does not have any openings orpores for fluid to pass through. The treatment head is made of a solidmaterial such as metal which does not absorb or expand when contactedwith liquids.

In other implementations, the treatment head has one or more openingsfor fluid to pass through. For example, there may be an opening in acenter of the treatment head that allows fluid to pass through. Thetreatment head may be made of a porous material such as a sponge. Thesponge may be impregnated with abrasive particles.

In a specific implementation, the fluid does not exit or pass throughthe tip opening. That is, the fluid is contained within the sleeve. Thefluid treats the skin within the sleeve and is then drawn back into thehand piece. In another implementation, the fluid or a portion of thefluid exits the tip opening.

After treating the skin, the fluid (i.e., spent fluid), skin particles,and other debris is then drawn into an annular opening 1040. The annularopening surrounds, encircles, or at least partially surrounds orencircles the treatment head. The fluid flows in a direction away from acenter of the treatment head. In an implementation, an edge or peripheryof the treatment head does not touch an inner surface of the sleeve.Rather, there is a space (i.e., annular opening) between the edge of thetreatment head and the inner surface of the sleeve. This space allowsfluid, skin particles, and other debris to pass through.

A width of the annular opening is from the edge of the treatment head tothe inner surface of the sleeve. In a specific implementation, the widthis about 2 millimeters, but may range from about 0.5 millimeters toabout 5 millimeters. This includes, for example, about 0.6, 0.7, 0.8,0.9, 1, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4,2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 2.8, 2.9, 3, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 3.9,4, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.5, 4.6, 4.7, 4.8, 4.9, or more than 5millimeters. The width may be less than 0.5 millimeters.

A greater width allows larger pieces abraded skin particles to passthrough without the tip becoming clogged. A smaller width allows for agreater treatment head surface area. The user may select a hand piece ortip having an appropriate width depending upon the application. Forexample, if the patient has scaly or flaky skin the user may desire touse a hand piece having a large annular opening since it is likely thatthere will be larger pieces of abraded skin particles as compared to apatient who has normal skin.

A ratio of the diameter of the treatment head to the inner diameter ofthe sleeve may be about 1:1.16, but may range from about 1:1.01 to about1:5. Some examples of the ratio include 1:1.05, 1:1.10, 1:1.11, 1:1.12,1:1.13, 1:1.14, 1:1.15, 1:1.17, 1:1.18, 1:1.19, 1:1.2, 1:1.25, 1:1.3,1:1.35, 1:1.40, 1:1.5, 1:2, 1:2.5, 1:3, 1:3.5, 1:4, and 1:4.5.

A sixth segment 1020 f of the flow path is parallel to the firstsegment, but the segments flow in opposite directions. A seventh segment1020 g of the flow path is at an angle with respect to the sixthsegment. The seventh segment may be parallel to the second segment,fourth segment, or both. The seventh segment indicates flow through anannular passageway 1045. The annular passageway is connected to theannular opening. The annular passageway may at least partially encircleor surround the treatment head holder. The annular passageway may atleast partially encircle or surround the tubular passageway.

An eighth segment 1020 h of the flow path is at an angle with respect tothe seventh segment. The eighth segment is parallel to the firstsegment, but the segments flow in opposite directions. The fluid flowsaround or encircles at least a portion of the tubular passageway. Aninth segment 1020 i of the flow path flows into a vacuum or suctionport 1050.

This application describes a specific implementation of the inventionwhere the flow direction is as shown in FIG. 10 : the fluid is deliveredthrough the passageway in the hand piece to the tip. This fluid is thenvacuumed into the vacuum line through the vacuum port. However, in analternate embodiment of the invention, the flow direction is opposite ofthat shown in FIG. 10 , where fluid is drawn into the passageway of thehand piece from the vacuum line.

For example, FIG. 16 shows a longitudinal section of the hand piecewhere a flow path 1605 is opposite of that shown in FIG. 10 . In thisspecific implementation, the fluid is delivered dorsally and the vacuumpressure is delivered axially. That is, the flow path is from a port1610 located on a side of the hand piece (i.e., between distal andproximal ends of the hand piece). The fluid surrounds at least a portionof the tubular passageway, flows out towards the tip opening at thedistal end, and then into the tubular passageway towards the proximalend. This specific implementation positions the suction closer to theskin as compared to the implementation shown in FIG. 10 . This canimprove upon the reuptake of fluid in the tip when contact with the skinis broken and can help to prevent or minimize drips and the amount ofspent fluid and skin debris left on the skin. This specificimplementation may be used with large treatment heads (e.g.,25-millimeter diameter heads) where there may be a greater volume offluid outputted as compared to small treatment heads (e.g.,15-millimeter diameter heads).

An adjustable tip may include one or more fluid channels. For example,FIG. 19 shows a perspective view of an adjustable tip 1905 having a setof fluid channels 1910. The channels are formed on an inside or interiorsurface or circumference of a sleeve 1915 of the tip and may bedistributed evenly about or around a treatment head 1920. The channelsextend in a direction perpendicular to a surface of the treatment heador the skin. There can be any number of fluid channels (e.g., 4, 5, 6,7, 8, 9, 10, or more than 10 fluid channels). A channel may be referredto as a groove, ridge, track, flute, rut, conduit, gutter, or furrow.

The channels are optional and are not included in some implementationsof the invention. The channels can be used to facilitate or enhance thehydrodynamics of the fluid. More specifically, the channels can be usedto help control or direct the delivery of fluid to the skin, control thepick-up of fluid from the skin, or both. The channels can help preventthe dripping of fluid, such as a fluid including a viscous liquid.

Referring now to FIG. 10 , in a specific implementation, the vacuum,fluid flow, or both is adjustable. Changing the position of the tip maythe change the amount of vacuum, fluid flow, or both. A volume of theannular passageway may be adjusted by adjusting the adjustable tip. In aspecific implementation, the volume is inversely proportional with thedistance between the treatment head and the tip opening. In anotherimplementation, the volume is proportional with the distance between thetreatment head and the tip opening.

A distance D20 from the suction port to the tip opening is greater thana distance D25 from the treatment surface to the tip opening. A distanceD27 between the suction port and treatment surface remains fixed as aposition of the treatment surface relative to the tip opening isaltered.

In this specific implementation, the tubular passageway, annularpassageway, annular opening, and treatment head are concentric. Inanother implementation, various combinations of the tubular passageway,annular passageway, annular opening, or treatment head are notconcentric.

FIGS. 11-14 show a second embodiment of a hand piece 1105. This handpiece is similar to the hand piece shown in FIGS. 5-10 , but this handpiece includes a treatment head having a diameter of about 15millimeters. The diameter of the treatment head shown in FIGS. 5-10 isabout 25 millimeters. Furthermore, a sleeve 1110 of an adjustable tip1115 has a first opening 1120 which is smaller than the opening insleeve 530 (see FIG. 5 ).

Typically, the first opening of the sleeve is proportional to thesurface area or diameter of the treatment head. In this specificimplementation, first opening 1120 has an inside diameter of about 19millimeters. The diameter can vary widely depending upon theapplication. The sleeve has a second opening, opposite the firstopening. The second opening allows the sleeve to be fit over the sleeveof the collar. The diameter of the second opening of sleeve 1110 isgreater than the diameter of the first opening.

In a specific implementation, a user can replace the sleeve andtreatment head with another sleeve and treatment head having a differentsize (i.e., diameter). Thus, a user can have a hand piece with a firsttreatment head and sleeve. The first treatment head has a firstdiameter. The first sleeve has a first opening and a second opening,opposite the first opening. Diameters of the first and second openingsare the same. The second opening is fit over the sleeve of the collar. Aflow to replace the first treatment head and sleeve may be as follows:

1. Remove first treatment head and sleeve from hand piece.

2. Attach a second treatment head having a second diameter, differentfrom the first diameter, to the hand piece.

3. Slip a second sleeve onto the hand piece. The second sleeve has athird opening and a fourth opening, opposite the third opening.Diameters of the third and fourth openings are different. The diameterof the fourth opening is the same as the diameter of the second openingof the first sleeve. This allows the second sleeve to similarly fit overthe collar.

In another implementation, a hand piece is not designed to allow a userto replace a treatment head with another treatment head having adifferent diameter. In this specific implementation, the user canreplace treatment heads having different levels of abrasiveness, but thesame diameter.

The treatment head can be of any size (i.e., surface area) or diameter.The diameter of a treatment head can range from about 3 millimeters toabout 75 millimeters. This includes, for example, 5, 6, 9, 10, 15, 20,30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, or 70 millimeters, or more than 75millimeters. A treatment head can have a diameter that is less than 5millimeters. Smaller diameter treatment heads can be used to treatsmaller areas such as a patient's forehead or cheek. Larger diametertreatment heads can be used to treat larger areas such as a patient'storso or back.

In a specific implementation, the treatment head has an abrasivesurface. The abrasive surface may be formed by fusing (e.g., gluing,imbedding) abrasive particles to the surface. The abrasive surface mayalso be formed by applying an adhesive-backed paper substrate to thesurface, knurling, machining, laser treatment or otherwise mechanicallyor chemically treating the surface. The abrasive surface may alsoinclude an abrasive open screen with bonded abrasive particles.

In this specific implementation, the abrasive particles are diamonds.Other examples of abrasive particles include silicone carbide, magnesiumoxide, carborundum, aluminum oxide, sodium bicarbonate, and the like.These abrasive particles may be used individually or in combination.

The abrasive particles are generally of a size (i.e., grit size) rangingfrom about 50 grit to about 300 grit, including for example, 30, 60, 80,100, 120, and 140 grit. The coarser particles (at the lower ends of thegrit ranges) may be provided for use in initial treatments, while finerparticles (at the higher ends of the grit ranges) may be employed forlater treatments. A treatment head having a 30-grit abrasive surface maybe referred to as coarse. A treatment head having a 30-grit abrasivesurface may be referred to as “coarse.” A treatment head having a60-grit abrasive surface may be referred to as “medium coarse.” Atreatment head having an 80-grit abrasive surface may be referred to as“medium.” A treatment head having a 100-grit abrasive surface may bereferred to as “medium fine.” A treatment head having a 120-gritabrasive surface may be referred to as “fine.” A treatment head having a140-grit abrasive surface may be referred to as “extra-fine.”

In another implementation, a treatment head has a smooth surface anddoes not have abrasive particles such as diamonds. This treatment headcan be used where the user desires to provide a small amount ofexfoliation and a large amount of infusion of solution. In this specificimplementation, the exfoliation is provided by the vacuum and not thesurface of the treatment head. The treatment head having the smoothsurface can be used to treat the lips, delicate areas around the eyes,areas that are inflamed, and sensitive postsurgical skin.

A treatment head having a smooth surface may be used to provide avacuum-massage. This treatment head may be referred to as a massageplate or adjustable depth massage plate and may be used during avacuum-based cellulite or body treatment with simultaneous irrigationand lubrication of the skin or tissue by therapeutic agents. The massageplate may be planar or flat. The massage plate may instead includebumps, nodes, lumps, or the like formed on a surface or tissue-facingsurface of the plate. During a skin treatment session, these features onthe surface of the massage plate can help to relax the body and increaseblood flow to the tissue.

The treatment head may be made of metal (e.g., stainless steel, surgicalstainless steel, aluminum, titanium, brass) or plastic such as nylon,thermoplastics, polyethylene, polycarbonate, acrylonitrile butadienestyrene (ABS), or Delrin. Glass, such as Pyrex, for example, may also beused.

In a specific implementation, the surface of the treatment head is flat,planar or substantially planar. However, in other implementations, atreatment head is nonplanar. For example, a treatment head may have acurved, rounded, or spherical surface. A treatment head may includegroups of bristles such as those discussed in U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 12/040,867 which is incorporated by reference.

A user can purchase a skin treatment kit. In an implementation, the kitincludes first and second hand pieces. The first hand piece is designedfor treatment heads with 25-millimeter diameters. This hand piece may beused on the patient's back, buttocks, torso, or thighs. The second handpiece is designed for treatment heads with 15-millimeter diameters. Thishand piece may be used on the patient's arms, calves, or other parts ofthe body with small surface areas. A first set of 25-millimeter diametertreatment heads includes four treatment heads—fine, medium, and coarsediamond treatment heads and a smooth treatment head. A second set of15-millimeter treatment heads includes four treatment heads—fine,medium, and coarse diamond treatment heads and a smooth treatment head.

In this implementation, the kit further includes a set of lotions of afirst type (e.g., a clarifying infusion), a set of lotions of a secondtype (e.g., a hydrating infusion), and a tray for holding the handpieces and treatment heads. The set of lotions may be packaged in 177milliliter (6 ounce) bottles. Each set of lotions may include sixbottles.

It should be appreciated that the various components of the kit may beavailable in any combination and with any number of components. Forexample, a kit may include treatment heads and no hand pieces and nolotions.

A representative flow for making a hand piece having an adjustable tipis outlined in steps 1 to 6 below.

1. Provide an end piece for a distal end of the hand piece.

2. Machine a first groove (e.g., helical groove) on a surface of the endpiece.

3. Machine one or more detents on the surface of the end piece.

4. Place an adjustable tip on the end piece.

5. Insert a peg into the adjustable tip such that an end of the pegengages the first groove.

6. Insert a ball of a ball detent mechanism into the adjustable tip.

Although the steps above are listed in a specific order, the steps maytake place in any order, as desired and depending on the specificapplication. There may be additional or other steps, which may replaceone or more of the above steps. Certain steps may be repeated. Certainsteps may be omitted. For example, in a specific implementation, thehand piece does not include detents and steps 3 and 6 are omitted.

In step 1 of the flow, an end piece for a distal end of the hand pieceis provided. This is the part that the adjustable tip will rotate about.In a specific implementation, this piece is a cylinder. Features tofacilitate the adjustment of the hand piece will be formed (e.g., milledor machined) on a cylindrical surface of the cylinder.

In step 2, a first groove (e.g., helical groove) is machined on thecylindrical surface of the end piece. The helical groove may be machinedusing a milling machine. The end piece is held in a fixture or clampsuch as a dividing head, spiral head, or index head of the millingmachine. The fixture can rotate the end piece about a longitudinal axisof the end piece. The fixture, in turn, may be mounted to a table of themilling machine. The table can move the end piece longitudinally past arevolving cutter of the milling machine.

The end piece is moved (i.e., feed or advanced) longitudinally past therevolving cutter. At or about the same time, the end piece is rotatedabout its longitudinal axis. The rate at which the end piece moveslongitudinally and rotates may be constant. The helical groove will thenbe milled on the cylindrical surface of the cylinder. A lead (L) ordistance that the helical groove advances longitudinally in onerevolution depends on the ratio between the speed of rotation and thelongitudinal feeding movement. If the speed of rotation is increased,the lead will be reduced, and vice versa, provided the rate of thelengthwise travel remains the same.

In a specific implementation, the end piece is rotated less than 360degrees. That is, the end piece does not make a complete revolution. Forexample, the end piece may be rotated about 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70,80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, or 160 degrees or more than 160degrees. The end piece may be rotated less than 10 degrees. In thisspecific implementation, the lead of the helical groove is a portion ofthe lead for one revolution. In another implementation, the end piece isrotated 360 degrees or more than 360 degrees.

A second groove may be machined on the end piece using a similarprocedure described above. That is, the second groove may be machined atthe same speed of rotation and rate of longitudinal movement used tomachine the first groove. The position of the second groove may or maynot be diametrically opposite the first groove.

In step 3, one or more detents are machined on the cylindrical surfaceof the end piece. Typically, the one or more detents are machined usingthe same speed of rotation and rate of longitudinal movement used tomachine the grooves. For example, a first detent is machined at a firstposition on the cylindrical surface of the end piece. The end piece isrotated and advanced at the same rate used to machine the groove. Therotation is paused before the rotation is complete. A second detent ismachined at a second position. This process may be repeated as desired.This helps to produce a set of detents having the same helical path asthe grooves.

In step 4, an adjustable tip is placed on the end piece. In a specificimplementation, the adjustable tip is frictionally fit over the endpiece. Other mechanical attachment mechanisms may instead oradditionally be used. Some examples of these attachment mechanismsinclude twisting and locking, snap-fit, threading, and so forth.

In step 5, a peg is inserted into a hole on the adjustable tip such thatan end of the peg protrudes past an inner surface of the adjustable tipand engages the helical groove. This allows the adjustable tip to followor trace the path of the helical groove when the adjustable tip isrotated. In a specific implementation, the peg is frictionally fit intothe hole. The peg may instead or additionally be screwed into the hole.This allows the peg to be unscrewed and the adjustable tip removed forcleaning or replacement.

In step 6, a ball of a ball detent mechanism is inserted into a hole inthe adjustable tip. The hole is drilled so that it aligns with the oneor more detents as the adjustable tip is rotated.

It should be appreciated that principles of the invention may beimplemented using other mechanical arrangements. For example, thegrooves, detents or both may instead or additionally be machined ontothe adjustable tip. The detents may be machined within the grooves. Invarious implementations, a linear gear or longitudinal track or rail isused to allow translation or axial displacement of the adjustable tipopening relative to the treatment head. In this specific implementation,the adjustable tip does not rotate. Rather, the adjustable tip movesback and forth along an axial direction without any rotation. In anotherimplementation, a ratchet mechanism including a ratchet gear with gearteeth and a spring-loaded pawl is used to allow rotation of theadjustable tip about the handle and locking of the adjustable tip in adesired position. Ball bearings, needle bearings, bushings, orcombinations of these are provided between the adjustable tip and handleto facilitate movement (e.g., rotation or translation).

As another example, the detent mechanism and grooves or helical groovesshown in FIG. 7 are replaced with threads (e.g., screw threads or threadteeth). In this specific implementation, the adjustable tip includesfirst thread teeth (e.g., female or internal threads) that engage ormesh with second thread teeth (e.g., male or external threads) formed atthe distal end of the handle. The depth is adjusted via a screwingmotion of the adjustable tip relative to the handle. This specificimplementation can allow for precise adjustment of the depth.

In a specific implementation, a first tip that provides a first distancebetween the tip opening and the treatment head may be swapped with asecond tip that provides a second distance, different from the first,between the tip opening and the treatment head.

For example, the user can vary the distance between the tip opening andthe treatment head by swapping extensions having the desired length. Afirst sleeve has a first end, a second end, opposite the first end, anda first tip opening at the first end. A first length is between thefirst and second ends. When the first sleeve is placed on the hand piecea first depth is between the first tip opening and a treatment head.

A second sleeve has a third end, a fourth end, opposite the third end,and a second tip opening at the third end. A second length is betweenthe third and fourth ends. The second length is different from the firstlength. That is, lengths of the first and second extensions aredifferent. A user can swap the first sleeve with the second sleeve. Thatis, the user can pull, twist-off, snap-off, unlock, or otherwise removethe first sleeve from the hand piece and place the second sleeve ontothe hand piece. Then, a second depth between the second tip opening andthe treatment head will be different from the first depth.

If the second sleeve is longer than the first sleeve (i.e., secondlength is greater than first length), the second depth will be greaterthan the first depth. If the second sleeve is shorter than the firstsleeve (i.e., second length is less than first length), the second depthwill be less than the first depth.

In another specific implementation, a sleeve includes one or moremodules or cylinders. Modules can be stacked together to create a sleevehaving any length. To make a longer sleeve, a first module can beattached to a second module. To make a shorter sleeve, the second modulecan be removed from the first module. Lengths or heights of the modulesmay be the same or different. Any mechanism may be used to connect themodules together. For example, the first and second modules may includethreads and thread teeth so that the first and second modules can bescrewed together. The first and second modules may snap together. Thefirst and second modules may be press fitted together.

In another specific implementation, the distance between the tip openingand the treatment head is adjusted using spacers or washers. Forexample, spacers may be placed behind the treatment head or between thetreatment head and the treatment head holder to vary the distancebetween the tip opening and the surface (i.e., abrasive or tissue-facingsurface) of the treatment head. That is, the user can remove a treatmenthead from the hand piece and remove and insert spacers as necessary toachieve the desired distance between the treatment head and the tipopening. In this specific implementation, a first spacer is between atreatment head and a treatment head holder. A depth is from a tipopening to the treatment head. The depth can be increased by adding asecond spacer between the treatment head and the treatment head holder,replacing the first spacer with a third spacer having a greaterthickness than the first spacer, or both. The depth can be decreased byremoving spacers, replacing a spacer with a shorter or thinner spacer,or both.

These spacers may be included with an adjustable-depth microdermabrasionkit. In this specific implementation, the kit includes amicrodermabrasion hand piece and a spacer container. The containerincludes a number of treatment head spacers. The spacers are designed tobe placed behind the treatment head. When a first spacer is placedbehind the treatment head, there is a first depth from the tip openingto the treatment head. When a second spacer is placed behind thetreatment head, there is a second depth, different from the first depth,from the tip opening to the treatment head.

Thicknesses of the first and second spacer may be the same or different.The spacers may be labeled so that the user can identify the thicknessof a spacer. The spacers may be color-coded where a color indicates athickness of a spacer. For example, a blue colored spacer may indicate aspacer having a thickness of about 4 millimeters. A green colored spacermay indicate a spacer having a thickness of about 7 millimeters. Adiameter of a spacer may be less than a diameter of the tip opening. Adiameter of a spacer may be less than or equal to a diameter of thetreatment head.

The distance between the tip opening and the treatment head may beadjusted using treatment heads having varying thicknesses. For example,a first treatment head has a first thickness. A second treatment headhas a second thickness, different from the first thickness. A hand piecewith the first treatment head has a first distance from a tip opening tothe first treatment head. The first treatment head can be replaced withthe second treatment head so that there is a second distance, differentfrom the first distance, between the tip opening and the secondtreatment head.

The various ideas and concepts presented in this application may becombined, in any combination, with other ideas and concepts presented inthis application. For example, the discussion of a hand piece having atip that can be twisted is applicable to the discussion of a tip with amodular tip sleeve piece.

A hand piece of the invention may be combined with other treatmenttechniques. For example, a hand piece having an adjustable tip mayfurther include LEDs for light or photomodulation therapy, electrodesfor delivering radio frequency therapy, a vibrating mechanism formassage therapy, or combinations of these. A hand piece may be used toprovide electromagnetic radiation (EMR), ultraviolet light (UV), orlight therapy. During a skin treatment session, a hand piece can delivertherapeutic UV light to an area of psoriasis or eczema whilesimultaneously removing the scale and delivering a therapeutic solution.

FIG. 17 shows a block diagram of a hand piece 1702 and console 1704 thatincludes radiation sources. A tip 1706 attached to the hand piece mayinclude a smooth or abrasive treatment head. This hand piece includesone or more radiation sources or emitters 1708 a, 1708 b, 1708 c, 1708d, 1708 e, 1708 f, 1708 g, and 1708 h which emit radiation 1710 a, 1710b, 1710 c, 1710 d, 1710 e, 1710 f, 1710 g, and 1710 h into a patient's1712 skin. The hand piece also includes a fluid delivery line 1714 and avacuum line 1716. In a specific embodiment, the hand piece includes amicrowave generator 1722, a radio frequency (RF) generator, or both. Themicrowave generator, RF generator, or both is optional and is notpresent in some implementations of the invention.

The console includes a control unit 1718, a fluid pump 1724, a fluidreservoir 1726, a collection reservoir 1728, a filter 1730, a vacuumsource 1732, and a display 1734. In a specific implementation, theconsole also includes a negative ion generator 1735. Via an on-offswitch 1734, power is supplied to the various components in the consolesuch as the fluid pump, vacuum source, and negative ion generator.

Cables 1736 a, 1736 b, 1736 c, 1736 d, 1736 e, 1736 f, 1736 g, and 1736h connect each radiation source 1708 a, 1708 b, 1708 c, 1708 d, 1708 e,1708 f, 1708 g, and 1708 h, respectively, to a cable 1738 which is thenconnected to a switch 1740 in the control unit.

The system has a vacuum path 1742 that passes through the vacuum line.The vacuum path includes the vacuum source, which is connected to thefilter, which is connected to the collection reservoir. The filter isoptional and is not present in some implementations of the invention.The collection reservoir is connected to the hand piece.

The system has a fluid path 1744 that passes through the fluid deliveryline. The fluid path includes the fluid reservoir, which is connected tothe fluid pump, which is connected to the hand piece. The fluid pump isoptional and is not present in some implementations of the invention; insuch a case, the fluid is drawn through the fluid path, through the handpiece, to the collection reservoir by the vacuum source. A fluid mayinclude a gas or liquid, or both.

The system has a power path to distribute power (e.g., AC or DC, orboth) to the components of the system. Power is supplied to the systemthrough a power input line 1748 to the on-off switch. From the on-offswitch, power is supplied via a line 1750 to the control unit. From thecontrol unit, power is supplied via a line 1752 to the vacuum source andfluid pump. Power is supplied via a line 1753 to the negative iongenerator. When power is supplied as AC power (e.g., from an AC outlet),and a component such as the control unit uses DC power, the system willinclude an AC-to-DC converter to convert AC power to DC power.

From the control unit, power is supplied via cable 1738 to theelectrical components in the hand piece such as the radiation sources,the microwave generator, and the RF generator. A line 1754 connects theRF generator to cable 1738. A line 1756 connects the microwave generatorto cable 1738. Lines 1754 and 1756 supply power to the RF generator andmicrowave generator, respectively.

The radiation sources may emit radiation at various wavelengths. Theradiation may be emitted as, for example, acoustic waves, radiofrequency (RF) waves, microwaves, infrared, far-infrared, near-infrared,visible light, ultraviolet light, far-ultraviolet light,near-ultraviolet light, and combinations of these.

In a specific implementation, one or more radiation sources emit visiblelight. Visible light is generally electromagnetic radiation having arange of wavelengths from about 380 nanometers to about 750 nanometers.

In some applications it may be desirable to direct a single band orselected multiple bands of visible light waves into the patient's skin.Thus, in a specific implementation, the radiation sources include lightemitting diodes (LEDs) which emit a predominately blue light, red light,yellow light, green light, or combinations of these. The radiationsources may include light having a luminance (candela per square meter)that may be two, three, four, or more than four times greater than theambient light.

Blue light is typically light having a predominate wavelength of about470 nanometers, but may range from about 450 nanometers to about 495nanometers. Red light is typically light having a predominate wavelengthof about 640 nanometers, but may range from about 620 nanometers toabout 750 nanometers. Yellow light is typically light having apredominate wavelength of about 590 nanometers, but may range from about570 nanometers to about 590 nanometers. Green light is typically lighthaving a predominate wavelength of about 510 nanometers, but may rangefrom about 510 nanometers to about 570 nanometers.

These particular wavelengths of light may be used to treat a variety ofskin conditions by transmitting the light into the patient's skin. Forexample, blue light may be transmitted into the patient's skin in orderto treat acne. Red light may be transmitted into the patient's skin toreduce pigmentation and lighten the skin. Yellow light may betransmitted into the patient's skin to promote the production ofcollagen which reduces fine lines and wrinkles.

In a specific embodiment using LEDs as radiation sources, all of theLEDs emit the same color light. Such an embodiment may be used toprovide a focused treatment of a specific skin condition. For example, ateenager with acne problems may undergo treatment with only blue light.These patients, because of their young age, may not yet have the finelines and wrinkles associated with older patients.

In another embodiment, two or more LEDs simultaneously emit light ofdifferent colors which, when combined, create another color of light.For example, a first LED may emit green light. A second LED may emit redlight. An implementation of the invention may then include a light mixerto combine the green and red light beams to produce yellow light. Itshould be appreciated that the light mixer may be used to combine theprimary light colors of red, green, and blue in specific ratios toproduce a light beam of any color.

In yet another embodiment using LEDs, two or more LEDs emit light ofdifferent colors to treat a combination of skin problems. For example,radiation sources 1708 a, 1708 b, and 1708 c may emit blue light.Radiation sources 1708 d, 1708 e, and 1708 f may emit red light.Radiation sources 1708 g and 1708 h may emit yellow light. Such anembodiment may be appropriate for an older adult who suffers from adultacne in addition to pigmentation, fine lines, and wrinkles.

Emitting or transmitting light at different wavelengths (i.e., differentcolors) also allows, directing treatment to a specific layer of skin(e.g., epithelium, basement membrane, dermis, and subcutis). Forexample, longer wavelengths of light, such as red light penetrate deeperinto the skin than shorter wavelengths of light such as blue light.

LEDs are just one example of a radiation source that may be used in animplementation of the invention. In other embodiments of the invention,other types of light sources may be used instead, or additionally. Someexamples of a radiation source include a light emitting polymer (LEP),organic light emitting diode (OLED), organic electro-luminescence (OEL)device, superluminescent diode (SLD), edge emitting LED (EELED), surfaceemitting LED (SELED), laser, laser diode, waveguide laser diode,vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL), fiber laser, fluorescentsolid state source, lamp, fluorescent lamp, dichroic lamp, incandescentlight bulb, halogen light bulb, xenon light bulb, high intensitydischarge lamp, and the like.

It should be appreciated that directing a single color light or selectedmultiple colors of light into the patient's skin may be accomplished ina variety of ways. One embodiment of the invention includes single colorLEDs (e.g., blue, red, green, and yellow LEDs). Another embodiment ofthe invention includes LEDs capable of producing multiple colors. In yetanother embodiment, a broad band radiation source is included with anoptical element to filter out unwanted wavelengths.

For example, an embodiment of the invention may include one or morelight filters through which the light is transmitted before the light istransmitted into the patient's tissue. For example, the tip may includea light filter that is placed over a radiation source. The light filtermay be designed with a shape (e.g., annular shape) so that it can be fitover the radiation sources while still allowing the tip, and fluid andvacuum passageways to be exposed. A release mechanism (e.g., releasetab) may be included with the radiation source structure holder so thatthe user can easily remove and replace the light filter.

Such light filters may be used to absorb some wavelengths of light whileallowing other wavelengths of light to pass through and into thepatient's tissue. For example, a radiation source may be a light bulbthat emits white light. White light is composed of all three primarycolors (i.e., red, green, and blue). A colored filter may then be usedto produce different colors of light.

For example, white light may be transmitted through a red filter toproduce red light. That is, a red filter absorbs blue and green lightand lets red light pass. White light may be transmitted through a bluefilter to produce blue light. That is, a blue filter absorbs red andgreen light and lets blue light pass. White light may be transmittedthrough a yellow filter to produce yellow light. That is, a yellowfilter absorbs blue light and permits green and red light to pass. Thecombination of green and red light produces yellow light.

Some examples of filters that may be used in an implementation of theinvention include absorptive, dichroic, monochromatic, infrared,ultraviolet, longpass, shortpass, bandpass, and polarization filters.

In other embodiments, a lens may be placed over one or more radiationsources to magnify or focus the radiation emitted by one or moreradiation sources. A lens may also be used to protect the radiationsources from damage (e.g., fluid damage). The lens may be designed witha shape (e.g., annular shape) so that it can be fit over the radiationsources while still allowing the tip, and fluid and vacuum passagewaysto be exposed. A release mechanism (e.g., release tab) may be includedwith the radiation source structure holder so that the user can easilyremove and replace the lens. In some cases it may be desirable to usethe lens to magnify the radiation emitted by the radiation sources toprovide an effective treatment. However, in other cases, it may insteadbe desirable to lessen the radiation as may be the case where thepatient has sensitive skin. Thus, an embodiment may also include a lenswhich diverges or attenuates the radiation emitted by one or moreradiation sources.

In a specific implementation, one or more optical wave guides, such asoptical fiber may be used to transmit light into the patient's tissue.For example, the radiation sources (e.g., LEDs, light bulbs, laserdiodes, and the like) may be located in the console as opposed to thehand piece as shown in FIG. 17 . Optical fiber may then be used totransmit light from the console to the hand piece. That is, the tip ofthe hand piece may include one or more ends of optical fiber. Theopposite of ends of the optical fiber may then be coupled to the lightsources in the console.

In yet another implementation, the radiation sources may be at adifferent location in the hand piece instead of at the tip as shown inFIG. 17 . For example, the radiation sources may be located in the handpiece at the opposite end of the tip.

A benefit of using fiber optics is that the cables do not have toinclude electrical wiring. That is the cables may be passive as opposedto active. This may then, for example, lessen the chances of a shockhazard to the patient and user.

However, locating the radiation sources at the tip may be beneficial incertain applications. For example, there may be less attenuation of theemitted light as the light does not have to travel from the console tothe tip.

In yet another implementation, there may be a combination of LEDs andfiber optic cable ends at the tip. For example, a light therapytreatment may include passing light through a patient's skin atdifferent depths. Thus, light from LEDs in the hand piece may be used topenetrate the patient's skin at a deeper depth than light from fiberoptic ends in the hand piece.

In a specific implementation, one or more radiation sources are used totherapeutically heat the patient's tissue. The radiation sources mayoutput radiation that has a power or energy level that may be two,three, four, or more than four times greater than the ambient radiation.The heat may be used to degrade the collagen in the tissue. This causesthe tissue to shrink and results in the tightening of the skin andreduction of wrinkles. The radiation sources may deliver RF energy,microwave radiation, or both to the patient's skin.

Thus, in a specific embodiment, the radiation sources may include radiofrequency electrodes. The electrodes may be in a monopolarconfiguration, bipolar configuration, or both. Monopolar configurationstypically provide a greater depth of RF energy penetration into thetissue, than bipolar configurations. Monopolar configurations typicallypenetrate to a depth of about 4 millimeters. Bipolar configurationstypically penetrate to a depth of about 0.2 millimeters to about 0.3millimeters. Some implementations may include only bipolarconfigurations. Because the bipolar configuration penetrates the tissueto a lesser depth than the monopolar configuration, there is lesspotential for injury to other structures below the skin such as nerves.

The radiation sources, i.e., electrodes, transmit energy to the tissuevia radio frequency waves generated by the RF generator. The controlunit allows a user to control the RF parameters, such as power level,cycles, and other parameters, such as selecting pulsed RF waves orcontinuous RF waves.

The radio frequency waves are typically in the range from about 100kilohertz to about 450 kilohertz. This includes for example, less than100 kilohertz, 125, 150, 175, 200, 225, 250, 275, 300, 325, 350, 375,400, 425, or greater than 450 kilohertz.

The electrodes are typically constructed of materials having a highthermal conductivity such as metals. The metals may include stainlesssteel, tungsten, brass, beryllium, copper, and the like.

In an embodiment using RF energy, the fluids exiting the tip may serveas a conductive fluid (e.g., saline solution) to conduct RF energy tothe skin and ensure electrical contact of the electrode with the skin.The fluids may also act as a heat sink. This helps to ensure uniformtreatment and prevent thermal injury to the tissue, such as burns.

The hand piece allows the user to control the placement of fluidsbecause the fluids are delivered directly to the treatment site by thehand piece. The hand piece can then vacuum or suction away the fluidsfrom the treatment site. These two features of the invention help toensure against heating and burning tissue not intended to be treated, aswell as preventing shock hazards to the patient and user.

In a manner similar to RF energy, the radiation sources may transmitmicrowave energy. In this embodiment, the radiation sources may includeone or more microwave antennas. The control unit allows the user tocontrol the microwave parameters, such as power level, cycles, and otherparameters, such as selecting pulsed microwaves or continuousmicrowaves.

The microwave generator may generate a frequency range from about 2gigahertz to about 20 gigahertz.

In a specific implementation, the radiation sources heat the patient'stissue to about 9 degrees Celsius above the ambient temperature. Forexample, if the ambient temperature is about 21 degrees Celsius then theradiation sources will heat the patient's tissue to about 30 degreesCelsius. However, in other implementations, the patient's tissue isheated to about 59 degrees Celsius above the ambient temperature. Forexample, if the ambient temperature is about 21 degrees Celsius then theradiation sources will heat the patient's tissue to about 80 degreesCelsius.

Thus, the patient's tissue (e.g., skin) is typically heated to atemperature range of about 30 degrees Celsius to about 80 degreesCelsius.

A specific implementation of the invention includes a temperature sensoror thermostat 1761 to help regulate the patient's skin temperature. Thetemperature sensor may be placed at the tip so that the temperaturesensor will be near or in contact with the patient's tissue duringtreatment. For example, the temperature sensor may be placed near or incontact with the radiation sources as shown in FIG. 17 .

The temperature sensor is connected via a data line 1764 to the controlunit. The temperature sensor detects the temperature of radiationsources, tissue, or both and communicates this information back to thecontrol unit via the data line. This allows the system to ensure thatthe patient's tissue is being properly heated. For example, if thetemperature of the tissue falls below a threshold level then the controlunit will increase power to the radiation sources (e.g., microwaveantennas). If the temperature of the tissue exceeds a threshold levelthen the control unit will decrease power to the radiation sources.Thus, the temperature sensor may also function as a safety feature. Thatis, if the temperature exceeds a maximum threshold value, the controlunit may decrease or disconnect power to the radiation sources toprevent the patient's tissue from being burned.

Switch 1740 is coupled to the control unit. Cable 1738 extends from theswitch, enters the hand piece and is coupled to one or more radiationsources. The switch is user-operated. The switch allows the user tocontrol the amount of power is supplied to the radiation sources. Forexample, during a treatment session, the patient may have a particularlysensitive area of skin that they do not want exposed to, for example, RFenergy. The switch then allows the user to switch off or decrease thepower supply to the radiation sources while power continues to flow tothe vacuum source and fluid pump.

In an embodiment, the switch is located at the console as shown in FIG.17 . In other embodiments, the switch is located on the hand piece. Inyet another embodiment, the switch may be located between the hand pieceand the console.

Although FIG. 17 only shows one switch, other implementations may havemultiple switches coupled between the radiation sources and the controlunit. For example, there may be two, three, four, five, six, seven,eight, or more than eight switches. These additional switches allow auser to selectively turn on and off individual radiation sources orgroups of radiation sources. For example, the radiation sources mayinclude LEDs having varying wavelengths (e.g., blue, red, yellow). Eachwavelength may be intended to treat a specific skin condition. A first,second, and third switch may control power to the blue, red, and yellowLEDs, respectively. When a user treats a teenager who only has acneproblems, the user may decide to only enable the first switch (i.e., theblue light to treat the acne).

However, the same hand piece can also be used on an adult with both acneand pigmentation problems. In this case, the user would enable both thefirst and second switches (i.e., blue and red LEDs) to treat the acneand pigmentation.

In an embodiment, multiple switches are used to control different typesof radiation sources. For example, the hand piece may include asradiation sources a combination of LEDs, RF electrodes, and microwaveantennas. A first, second, and third switch may control power to theLEDs, RF electrodes, and microwave antennas, respectively. The user,depending on the patient's skin condition, may then only enable thefirst switch for the LEDs, the second switch for the RF electrodes, thethird switch for the microwave antennas, or combinations of these.

Furthermore, additional switches may be used to control other componentssuch as the fluid pump, vacuum source, or both. For example, the vacuumsource and fluid pump may be controlled by two separate switches. Thisallows, for example, a “dry” microdermabrasion treatment without fluids.As another example, the user may decide to turn off both the fluid pumpand vacuum source to provide only radiation therapy.

A specific implementation of the invention includes negative iongenerator 1735. The negative ion generator may further include one ormore ion-emitting pins or electrodes for producing negative ions in theair which flows past the electrode. A fan may also be included to directair past the electrodes.

The negative ion generator may be placed in the console as shown in FIG.17 or placed in the hand piece. The negative ion generator is optionaland may not be included in some implementations of the invention.

The negative ion generator may generate negative ions using, forexample, a piezoelectric transformer or a voltage generator. The voltagegenerator may generate voltages that range from about 1600 volts toabout 1700 volts. In other implementations, the voltage generator maygenerate higher voltages that range from about 6000 volts to about 7000volts.

The negative ion generator generates negative ions by negativelycharging gas molecules, such as oxygen molecules and fine particles inthe air. Negative ionization may reduce the concentration of airbornecontaminates such as pollen, dust, dust mites, viruses, cigarette smoke,animal dander, odors, and fumes from the breathing zone by binding withthese contaminates and causing them to fall to the floor.

These combination skin therapies are further discussed in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 12/197,065, filed Aug. 22, 2008 which isincorporated by reference. This patent application also incorporates byreference U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/393,682, filed Mar. 19,2003; Ser. No. 11/562,892, filed Nov. 22, 2006; Ser. No. 29/304,428,filed Feb. 29, 2008; Ser. No. 29/322,102 and Ser. No. 29/322,106, filedJul. 29, 2008; Ser. No. 12/197,047 and Ser. No. 12/197,075, filed Aug.22, 2008; and U.S. Pat. No. 6,695,853, filed Nov. 21, 2001, and issuedFeb. 24, 2004.

A representative flow for treating a patient with a hand piece having anadjustable tip is outlined in steps 1 to 3 below.

1. Determine patient's skin type, condition, desired results, orcombinations of these.

2. Adjust distance from tip opening of hand piece to treatment headbased on the determination.

3. Apply tip to skin surface.

Although the steps above are listed in a specific order, the steps maytake place in any order, as desired and depending on the specificapplication. There may be additional or other steps, which may replaceone or more of the above steps. Certain steps may be repeated. Certainsteps may be omitted.

In step 1 of the flow, the user determines the patient's skin type,condition, age, skin sensitivity, desired results, or combinations ofthese. For example, the user may make the determination by measuring theskin elasticity of a patient using, for example, a cutometer.

In step 2 of the flow, the user adjusts, changes, or alters the distancefrom the tip opening of the hand piece to the treatment head based onthe determination. In a specific implementation, the distance isadjusted by rotating the tip of the hand piece relative to the treatmenthead.

However, the distance may be adjusted using any of the ideas or conceptspresented in this application. For example, the sleeve may be made oftwo or more interlocking pieces. Changing the distance may includeremoving one or more of the interlocking pieces, adding one or moreinterlocking pieces, or both. The interlocking pieces may have the sameor different heights. The interlocking pieces may be labeled,color-coded, or both so that the user can distinguish between thedifferent heights of the interlocking pieces.

In step 3 of the flow, the user applies the hand piece or tip opening ofthe hand piece to the skin surface of the patient. In a specificimplementation, suction is provided outside a periphery of the treatmentsurface through the opening. A portion of the skin surface is drawnthrough the opening using the suction. The portion of the skin surfacedrawn is proportional to the distance between the tip opening and thetreatment head.

During a treatment session, a patient may be treated with multiplepasses or times with the hand piece being progressively adjusted eachpass or time. The progressive adjustments may include increasing ordecreasing the amount of skin pulled each pass. For example, for a firstpass a hand piece may be adjusted so that there is a first distance froma tip opening to a treatment head. For a second pass, the hand piece maybe adjusted so that there is a second distance, different from the firstdistance, from the tip opening to the treatment head.

The same or different portion of skin may be treated for each pass. Forexample, the user could start with a low setting of the tip so that asmall amount of skin is stretched. Once the skin has received thisinitial stretching, the user could adjust the hand piece to a deepersetting so that a larger amount of skin is stretched. This progressiveapproach may help to prevent damage to the skin.

FIG. 18 shows a cross section of a hand piece 1805 having a breatherhole 1810 and a set of massaging nodes 1815. The breather hole islocated on a sleeve 1820 of the adjustable tip and extends through thesleeve, i.e., from an exterior surface of the sleeve to an interiorsurface of the sleeve. The user, by covering and uncovering the breatherhole, can vary the amount of air allowed into the vacuum or flow pathand thus vary the amount of suction in the adjustable tip. To increasethe amount of suction, the user can use their finger to cover thebreather hole which prevents air from flowing through the hole. Todecrease the amount of suction, the user can uncover the hole whichpermits air to flow through the hole.

Although the figure shows the breather hole positioned on the sleeve ofthe adjustable tip, the breather hole can be located anywhere along thevacuum or flow path of the system. For example, the breather hole may bepositioned along vacuum line 202 (FIG. 2 ). The breather hole mayimplemented as a valve or any other type of control which allows a userto vary the amount of suction or air in the adjustable tip. In aspecific implementation, the breather hole has a diameter of about 1millimeter.

A representative flow for using a hand piece having a breather hole isoutlined in steps 1 to 3 below.

1. Cover breather hole and place adjustable tip of hand piece overpatient's skin.

2. Stroke hand piece over patient's skin.

3. Uncover breather hole and lift adjustable tip away from patient'sskin.

In step 1 of the flow, the user begins a first or initial stroke of thehand piece over the skin by covering the breather hole. In step 2, whilethe breather hole is covered, the user runs or strokes the hand pieceover the patient's skin. That is, the user completes the first stroke byrunning the hand piece from a first position on the skin to a secondposition on the skin.

In step 3, after the first stroke is completed, the user uncovers thebreather hole. This allows air into the adjustable tip. The flow of airinto the tip decreases the amount of suction in the tip. This allows thetip to be lifted away from the skin without excessively pulling the skinwhich can damage the skin, cause the patient discomfort, or both. Theuser can then reposition the tip at a third position on the skin, coverthe breather hole, and begin a second or subsequent stroke of the handpiece over the skin. The breather hole is optional and is not includedin some implementations of the invention.

In this specific implementation, the massaging nodes are integrallyformed with the sleeve of the tip and extend from an edge 1825 orperimeter or circumference of the sleeve in a direction perpendicular toa surface of the treatment head. The massaging nodes surround or atleast partially surround the treatment head or tip opening. In anotherimplementation, the massaging nodes are instead or additionally formedon the treatment head. For example, a first portion of the treatmenthead may include abrasive particles (e.g., diamond particles). A secondportion of the treatment head may include massaging nodes. The secondportion may surround or at least partially surround the first portion.The first portion may surround or at least partially surround the secondportion.

There can be any number of massaging nodes (e.g., 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10,or more than 10 massaging nodes). The massaging nodes may be referred toas lumps, ridges, fingers, projections, rounded protrusions, roundedmounds, or bumps (i.e., a relatively abrupt convexity or protuberance ona surface). The massaging nodes may be made of a rigid material (e.g.,plastic) or a compliant material such as an elastomeric material. Thenodes may be made of rubber or silicon. These massaging nodes can beused to provide a kneading and massaging effect as the hand piece isbeing run across the patient's skin. The massaging nodes are optionaland are not included in some implementations of the invention. Handpieces without massaging nodes may be able to form a tighter sealagainst the patient's skin.

FIG. 20 shows a side view of a hand piece 2005 having a motor 2015 orservo to adjust the position of a treatment head 2020 relative to a tipopening 2025. In this specific implementation, the motor is connected toa sleeve 2030 of the hand piece, but may instead or additionally beconnected to the treatment head. An electrical connection (not shown)connects the motor to a power supply.

In a specific implementation, the motor causes the treatment head andtip opening to reciprocate (e.g., pulse or modulate) relative to eachother, i.e., rapidly alternate between a first distance from thetreatment head to the tip opening and a second distance from thetreatment head to the tip opening. The frequency of the reciprocationmay range from about 25 cycles per minute to about 500 cycles per minutewhere a cycle is a movement from a first position to a second positionand then back to the first position of the treatment head relative tothe tip opening—i.e., a movement from a shallow setting to a deepsetting to a shallow setting.

In this specific implementation, the motor allows for a treatmentsetting where the hand piece alternates between settings. This allowsfor real-time merging of the benefits of both shallow and deep settingsthrough pulsation rather than multiple passes at different depthsettings. The reciprocating action or massaging action can have varioustherapeutic benefits. For example, the reciprocating action can help tobreak down cellulite and adipose tissue.

Figures A-FF in the appendix show various implementations of a handpiece of the skin treatment system. Any one of these hand pieces may beused for treating the skin. In a specific implementation, a hand piecedelivers a combination of therapies simultaneously including bodypolishing, vacuum massage, and infusion or Dermalinfusion™. Thiscombination of therapies can address the underlying cellular processesthat bring about skin imperfections in many areas of the body. Each handpiece includes an adjustable-depth tip, allowing the operator to treat abroad range of skin types and conditions associated with the body. Highsettings allow for treating cellulite, restoring elasticity, andproviding deep lymphatic massage. Lower settings allow for treatingstretch marks, rough skin, and acne. Figure GG in the appendix shows abrochure describing some features of a specific implementation of theskin treatment system.

This description of the invention has been presented for the purposes ofillustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or tolimit the invention to the precise form described, and manymodifications and variations are possible in light of the teachingabove. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to bestexplain the principles of the invention and its practical applications.This description will enable others skilled in the art to best utilizeand practice the invention in various embodiments and with variousmodifications as are suited to a particular use. The scope of theinvention is defined by the following claims.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A method comprising: providing a pluralityof treatment head spacers comprising a first spacer and a second spacer;providing a microdermabrasion hand piece comprising a tip opening,wherein a treatment head is coupled to the microdermabrasion hand piece,and each of the treatment head spacers is capable of being placed behindthe treatment head; placing the first spacer behind the treatment headof microdermabrasion hand piece results in a first depth from the tipopening to the treatment head; and placing the second spacer behind thetreatment head of microdermabrasion hand piece results in a second depthfrom the tip opening to the treatment head, wherein the second depth isdifferent from the first depth.
 2. The method of claim 1 comprising:indicating a thickness of the first spacer by marking the first spacerusing a first color; indicating a thickness of the second spacer bymarking the second spacer using a second color, different from the firstcolor.
 3. The method of claim 2 wherein a thickness of the first spaceris different from a thickness of the second spacer.
 4. The method ofclaim 1 wherein a thickness of the first spacer is different from athickness of the second spacer.
 5. The method of claim 1 wherein adiameter of the first spacer is less than a diameter of the tip opening.6. The method of claim 1 comprising: providing a container within whichthe treatment head spacers are contained.
 7. A method comprising:forming an opening in a treatment head that is coupled to amicrodermabrasion hand piece, wherein a treatment surface is positionedto face toward the opening and is accessible through the opening; andforming a plurality of adjustable setting positions on themicrodermabrasion hand piece that alter a distance between the treatmentsurface and the opening, wherein for each of the settings, the treatmentsurface does not extend outside the opening.
 8. The method of claim 7comprising: providing a plurality of treatment head spacers comprising afirst spacer and a second spacer, wherein each of the treatment headspacers is capable of being coupled to the treatment head, behind thetreatment head.
 9. The method of claim 7 comprising: coupling the firstspacer behind the treatment head of microdermabrasion hand piece resultsin a first depth from the tip opening to the treatment head; andcoupling the second spacer behind the treatment head ofmicrodermabrasion hand piece results in a second depth from the tipopening to the treatment head, wherein the second depth is differentfrom the first depth.
 10. The method of claim 7 further comprising:coupling a container comprising fluid to the microdermabrasion handpiece, wherein the fluid is supplied to the treatment head during use ofthe microdermabrasion hand piece.
 11. The method of claim 7 wherein thetreatment head can be decoupled from the microdermabrasion hand pieceand replaced by another treatment head.